EndBadGovernance Protest: Journalists Under Attack, NUJ Calls for End to Intimidation
Sawabiya YarKarkara
#EndBadGovernance Protest: Journalists Under Attack, NUJ Calls for End to Intimidation.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the increasing attacks on journalists covering the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests across the country.
Calling for an immediate end to the intimidation and harassment of journalists by security agents, reports has it that several journalists were manhandled, arrested, and detained while covering the protests on Thursday and Friday, August 1 and 2, 2024.
According to NUJ, “Despite identifying themselves as media personnel, the journalists were subjected to physical abuse, harassment, and intimidation“
The NUJ, in a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Achike Chude, described the attacks as "unacceptable" and "a clear violation of the constitutional rights of journalists."
The union emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and ensuring transparency, and as such, they must be allowed to operate freely without fear of reprisal.
The union specifically mentioned the case of a journalist who was beaten and detained by security agents while covering the protest in Abuja. The journalist, who was identified as John Terna, was reportedly arrested while taking pictures of the protest and was later released after spending several hours in detention.
NUJ has called on the federal government to take immediate action to stop the attacks on journalists and ensure their safety while performing their duties. The union also demanded that the government investigate the incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
"We condemn the attacks on journalists in the strongest terms possible," said Achike Chude. "Journalists are not enemies of the state, but rather partners in progress. We will not stand idly by while our members are intimidated and harassed."
The #EndBadGovernance protests have been ongoing across the country, with citizens demanding good governance, accountability, and an end to corruption. While the protests have been largely peaceful, security agents have responded with force, leading to clashes between protesters and security personnel.
The attacks on journalists have raised concerns about press freedom and the safety of media personnel in Nigeria. The NUJ has vowed to continue to fight for the rights of journalists and ensure that they can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or harassment.
