NUJ Zone D condemns detention of journalist, demands probe of NSCDC over arrest of Kogi reports editor

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D (North Central), has condemned the arrest and detention of the Editor of Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, describing the action as a threat to press freedom and democratic principles.

In a statement signed by the Vice President of NUJ Zone D, Alhaji Adeiza Momohjimoh, the union expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding the journalist’s arrest, warning security agencies against being used as tools for political intimidation.

The union stressed that the NSCDC must not allow itself to be manipulated by politicians or individuals seeking to settle personal or political scores, noting that security agencies are expected to operate professionally, impartially and strictly within the confines of the law.

According to the statement, scrutinising media reports, determining the accuracy of journalistic content and detaining journalists over publications concerning public office holders do not fall within the statutory responsibilities of the NSCDC.

The union maintained that individuals who feel defamed or aggrieved by media reports have legitimate legal channels through which they can seek redress rather than resorting to the use of security agencies.

NUJ Zone D also cautioned politicians and public office holders against deploying publicly funded security institutions to harass, intimidate or silence journalists and other citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

The union described the action of the Kogi State Command of the NSCDC as a dangerous precedent capable of undermining press freedom and eroding public confidence in security institutions.

Consequently, the NUJ called on the Commandant-General of the NSCDC to immediately investigate the matter, caution the Kogi State Command and sanction any officer found to have acted outside the law or professional standards.

Reaffirming its commitment to the defence of press freedom, the rule of law and constitutional rights, the union urged all stakeholders to uphold democratic values and ensure that journalists are not persecuted for carrying out their professional responsibilities.