NUJ Warns NSCDC Against Further Aggression, Harassment of Journalists in Kogi

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, threatening an embargo on coverage of the agency's activities should it engage in further acts of aggression or harassment against journalists.

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If indeed the lawmaker had any grievance regarding the publication in question, he ought to have explored the existing cordial relationship between him and the Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to seek an amicable resolution.

The warning comes in response to the arrest and detention of Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, the Editor of Kogi Report, by the Kogi State Command of the NSCDC. The NUJ, Zone D, has expressed grave concern over the incident, viewing it as a dangerous trend that could undermine press freedom and democratic governance in Nigeria. The union is particularly disturbed by allegations suggesting the involvement of a federal lawmaker, Hon. Leke Abejide, in the events leading to the journalist's arrest.

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His alleged resort to law enforcement agencies as instruments of intimidation and harassment against a journalist has no place in a democratic society.

Comrade Adeiza Momojimoh, Vice Chairman of NUJ Zone D, stated that if the lawmaker had grievances regarding a publication, he should have pursued amicable resolution through the established relationship between the lawmaker and the Kogi State Council of the NUJ. The alleged resort to law enforcement agencies as instruments of intimidation and harassment against a journalist is deemed unacceptable in a democratic society, which thrives on tolerance, dialogue, and respect for dissenting opinions, not on the suppression of the media.

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Such a position, if true, raises serious questions about the independence, professionalism, and impartiality expected of a law enforcement agency.

Further compounding the union's concern is the reported insistence by NSCDC officials that they could not grant Mr. Owoeye bail without first obtaining permission from the federal lawmaker. This position, if true, raises serious questions about the independence and professionalism of the NSCDC. The NUJ emphasized that no individual, regardless of their political office, should be placed above the law or exercise authority over the constitutional powers of security agencies. The administration of justice must be guided by law and due process, not by the whims of private individuals or political actors.

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No individual, regardless of status or political office, should be placed above the law or be allowed to exercise authority over the constitutional powers and responsibilities of security agencies.