The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and other relevant institutions to ensure the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of crimes against journalists, warning that impunity threatens press freedom and democratic governance.
The union made the call on Monday, November 2, 2026, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
NUJ President, Alhassan Yahya, in a statement, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to defending press freedom, protecting media professionals and seeking justice for journalists who are targeted, harassed, detained or assaulted in the course of their duties.
Yahya lamented that journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world continue to face intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical attacks, cyberbullying and other forms of violence for carrying out their constitutional responsibility of informing the public.
He described journalism as a cornerstone of democracy, noting that the profession plays a critical role in holding public officials accountable, amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and safeguarding citizens’ right to accurate information.
According to him, the failure to hold perpetrators of crimes against journalists accountable creates fear within the media industry, weakens the rule of law and encourages self-censorship, thereby undermining public access to information.
To address the situation, the NUJ urged relevant authorities to conduct thorough, independent and transparent investigations into reported cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention of journalists, ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
The union also called for stronger enforcement of existing legal frameworks to protect media professionals against arbitrary arrests, censorship and administrative abuse, while urging security agencies to recognise journalists as partners in democratic governance rather than adversaries.
It further advocated collaboration among government institutions, media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety mechanisms and emergency support networks for journalists working in high-risk environments.
The NUJ stressed that threats against journalists constitute a threat to democratic governance, calling on human rights organisations, civil society groups and citizens to support efforts to create an environment where media professionals can discharge their responsibilities without fear or intimidation.
The union maintained that no journalist should have to sacrifice their safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth.
