NUJ Calls for End to Impunity, Demands Justice for Attacked Journalists.

Abuja – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of crimes against journalists in Nigeria.

The union made the call on Monday, November 2, 2026, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed globally to draw attention to attacks on media professionals and the need to ensure justice for victims.

In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya, the NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, protecting media practitioners and demanding justice for journalists who face harassment, intimidation, unlawful detention, physical assaults and other forms of attacks in the course of their duties.

The union described journalism as a vital pillar of democracy, noting that journalists play critical roles in holding public office holders accountable, amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and safeguarding the public’s right to information.

It, however, expressed concern that journalists in Nigeria and other parts of the world continue to face threats, arbitrary arrests, physical attacks and cyberbullying while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

According to the NUJ, the failure to investigate and prosecute those responsible for crimes against journalists creates an atmosphere of fear, undermines press freedom and encourages self-censorship, with negative consequences for democratic governance and the rule of law.

The union consequently urged relevant authorities to ensure thorough, independent and transparent investigations into reported cases of attacks, harassment and unlawful detention of journalists, stressing that perpetrators must be brought to justice.

It also called for the effective enforcement of existing legal protections against arbitrary arrests, censorship and administrative abuse, while urging security agencies to recognise journalists as important partners in democratic development rather than adversaries.

The NUJ further advocated collaboration among government institutions, media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to establish effective safety measures and emergency support systems for journalists working in high-risk environments.

Reiterating the importance of press freedom to democratic governance, the union called on human rights organisations, civil society groups and members of the public to support efforts towards creating a safe environment for journalists to discharge their professional responsibilities without fear or intimidation.

“A threat to any journalist anywhere is a threat to democratic governance everywhere,” the statement said.

The NUJ stressed that no journalist should have to pay with their safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth.