NUJ Demands End to Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and other relevant institutions to take decisive action against perpetrators of crimes targeting journalists in the country.

The union made the call on Monday, November 2, 2026, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, reaffirming its commitment to protecting press freedom and ensuring justice for media professionals facing threats, harassment, unlawful arrests and physical attacks.

In a press statement issued in Abuja and signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, the NUJ said journalism remains a fundamental pillar of democracy, as it promotes accountability, gives voice to marginalised communities and guarantees citizens’ access to credible information.

The union, however, expressed concern over persistent cases of intimidation, unlawful detention, physical assaults, cyberbullying and other forms of violence against journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world.

According to the NUJ, the failure to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on journalists creates an atmosphere of fear, undermines democratic values and weakens public confidence in the justice system.

It warned that when perpetrators are allowed to escape punishment, journalists may resort to self-censorship, thereby limiting the free flow of information and weakening citizens’ right to know.

To address the situation, the union urged government authorities and security agencies to ensure thorough, independent and transparent investigations into reported cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention involving journalists.

It also called for stronger legal protections to shield media professionals from arbitrary arrests, censorship and the misuse of security regulations.

The NUJ further urged law enforcement and security agencies to recognise journalists as important partners in democratic governance rather than treating them as adversaries in the discharge of their professional responsibilities.

The union also called for collaboration among media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety measures and emergency support systems for journalists working in high-risk environments.

Reaffirming its position on press freedom, the NUJ said attacks on journalists constitute a threat to democratic governance and called on human rights organisations, civil society groups and members of the public to support efforts to create a safe environment for media practitioners.

“No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth,” the statement declared.

The union stressed that protecting journalists and ensuring accountability for crimes committed against them remain essential to safeguarding press freedom, strengthening democracy and upholding the rule of law.