By Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure the prosecution of perpetrators of crimes against journalists in the country.
The Union made the call in a statement issued by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed globally on November 2.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, protecting media professionals and ensuring justice for journalists who face intimidation, harassment, unlawful detention, physical assault and other forms of attacks in the course of their duties.
According to the Union, journalism remains a fundamental pillar of democracy, as it holds those in authority accountable, gives voice to marginalised communities and guarantees the public’s right to accurate information.
It, however, expressed concern that journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world continue to experience threats, cyberbullying, arbitrary arrests and physical violence while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The statement warned that failure to investigate and prosecute those responsible for attacks on journalists undermines the rule of law, weakens public confidence in institutions and encourages self-censorship among media practitioners.
The NUJ therefore called for independent, thorough and transparent investigations into all unresolved cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention involving journalists, with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
It also urged the government to strengthen existing legal frameworks to protect media professionals against arbitrary arrests, censorship and abuse of administrative powers.
The Union further appealed to law enforcement and security agencies recognise journalists as essential partners in democratic governance rather than adversaries, while advocating collaboration between media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety measures for journalists, particularly those working in high-risk environments.
The NUJ stressed that an attack on any journalist anywhere constitutes a threat to democratic governance everywhere.
It consequently called on human rights organisations, civil society groups and members of the public to support efforts towards creating an environment where journalists can discharge their professional responsibilities without fear or favour.
The statement emphasised that no journalist should lose their safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth.
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