2025 International Press Freedom Day: NUJ Seeks End to Attacks and Impunity Against Journalists
As the world commemorates the 2025 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council has renewed its appeal to government authorities, security operatives, and all relevant stakeholders to safeguard the lives, dignity, and freedom of media professionals across the country.
In a statement obtained by PulseNets in Abuja on Sunday, the Council’s Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, strongly condemned the recurring acts of violence, intimidation, and harassment directed at journalists, describing such actions as a “blatant assault on democracy and freedom of expression.”
The Council lamented that the 2025 observance serves as a somber reminder of the persistent threats and attacks faced by journalists in the discharge of their duties, as well as the deeply troubling lack of accountability for those behind such crimes.
According to the statement, the Council expressed grave concern over the rising trend of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and physical assaults on media practitioners nationwide, stressing that most of these incidents end without justice being served.
“A society that silences its journalists silences the truth,” the Council declared. “We cannot build an accountable and transparent democracy when those who inform and enlighten the public are constantly harassed, attacked, or unjustly detained.”
Speaking further, Oyekunle told PulseNets that the Union is urging the Federal Government and all security agencies to show genuine political will by investigating both past and recent attacks on journalists, ensuring that perpetrators—no matter their social or political status—face the full weight of the law.
He also called on state and non-state actors to uphold the constitutional role of the press and guarantee an environment where journalists can report freely without fear, intimidation, or interference. He warned that the culture of impunity against journalists not only threatens press freedom but also erodes the citizens’ right to information.
“Justice for journalists is justice for society. Every attack on a journalist is an attack on truth, accountability, and the people’s right to be informed,” the Council’s statement emphasised.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom, the NUJ FCT Council pledged to continue advocating for the welfare, safety, and professional rights of journalists while collaborating with relevant partners to strengthen protection mechanisms for media workers across Nigeria.
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The statement concluded with a heartfelt tribute to journalists who have suffered, been detained, or lost their lives in pursuit of truth, urging Nigerians never to forget their courage and sacrifice.
