The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for an immediate end to all forms of violence, harassment, and intimidation against journalists in Nigeria, stressing that such actions undermine press freedom and the public’s right to information.
Speaking during a radio interview to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Comrade Ike decried the increasing threats journalists face in the course of their duties, ranging from physical assault and arbitrary detention to online harassment and gender-based discrimination.
“The NUJ FCT Council has zero tolerance for intimidation and harassment of journalists,” she said. “We demand public apology and accountability from perpetrators to protect journalists.”
She condemned the use of excessive force by state actors and security agencies, describing such acts as deliberate attempts to silence the media. Comrade Ike reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to protecting journalists particularly female reporters through advocacy and firm institutional action.
“Journalists are watchdogs of society,” she noted, adding that a free and safe press environment fosters transparency, collaboration, and good governance.
Recalling the union’s press week in July 2025, Ike said the discussions on press freedom during the event had far-reaching implications for democracy and accountability. She emphasized that the NUJ FCT remains proactive in advocating for the safety of journalists and seeking justice for those attacked in the line of duty.
“Our goal is to ensure journalists can operate without fear or intimidation,” she concluded. “We must end impunity, harassment, and violence, especially against female journalists.”
