By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to end impunity for crimes against journalists and ensure that perpetrators of attacks on media professionals are brought to justice.
The union made the call on Monday, November 2, 2026, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, the NUJ expressed solidarity with journalists across Nigeria and around the world, reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting media workers.
The union noted that journalists continue to face intimidation, unlawful arrests, physical assaults, cyberbullying and other forms of harassment while carrying out their professional responsibilities.
According to the NUJ, failure to investigate and prosecute crimes against journalists threatens democratic governance, weakens the rule of law and encourages self-censorship.
It stressed that journalism remains essential to democracy because it holds public officials accountable, gives marginalised communities a voice and provides citizens with information needed to make informed decisions.
The union urged government institutions and security agencies to independently and transparently investigate reported cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention involving journalists.
It also called for stronger legal protections against arbitrary arrests, censorship and administrative abuse, while urging security agencies to recognise journalists as important partners in democratic governance.
The NUJ further appealed to media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to work together in establishing effective safety measures and emergency support systems for journalists, particularly those working in high-risk environments.
Reaffirming its position, the union warned that attacks on journalists threaten the wider society and undermine citizens’ right to information.
“No journalist should pay with their safety, freedom, or life for reporting the truth,” the statement declared.
The NUJ called on Nigerians, human rights organisations and other stakeholders to support efforts towards creating an environment where journalists can carry out their duties without fear or intimidation.
