The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has joined the global media community to mark the 2025 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, renewing its call on government authorities, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to uphold the safety, protection, and dignity of journalists across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Secretary of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, expresses deep concern over the rising cases of attacks, harassment, and intimidation of journalists in the country.
Comrade Oyekunle condemned these acts as a grave threat to democracy, freedom of expression, and the public’s right to information.
“A society that silences its journalists silences the truth. We cannot build a transparent and accountable democracy when those who bring information to the public are constantly harassed, attacked, or unjustly detained,” Oyekunle stated.
The Council described this year’s observance as a solemn reminder of the continuing dangers faced by journalists in the line of duty, adding that there was a surge in the lack of accountability for perpetrators of crimes against media professionals.
The Council further urged the Federal Government and security agencies to demonstrate genuine commitment to ending impunity by conducting thorough investigations into all past and recent cases of violence against journalists and prosecuting offenders, regardless of their political or social status.
The NUJ FCT Council also called on state and non-state actors to respect the constitutional rights of journalists and guarantee them the freedom to report without fear, interference, or reprisal.
“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 statement emphasized.
As part of the commemoration, the Council paid tribute to journalists who had been detained, harassed, or lost their lives in the pursuit of truth.
It reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom, promoting journalists’ welfare, and working with partners to create a safer environment for media practitioners in Nigeria.
The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists is observed annually on November 2, following its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, to raise awareness and demand accountability for crimes committed against journalists worldwide.
