The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, has condemned the alleged attack on journalists covering the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano on Saturday.
The union described the incident, which reportedly involved suspected thugs attacking journalists and damaging a Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM vehicle, as unacceptable and a serious threat to press freedom.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, and Secretary, Comrade Hauwa Suleiman Zahradeen, the council said journalists must not be attacked, intimidated or harassed while performing their legitimate professional duties.
The NUJ expressed particular concern that the incident occurred during a political gathering as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It said attacks on journalists covering political events constitute not only an assault on the media but also a setback to democracy, stressing that a free and independent press is essential to an informed citizenry and credible democratic process.
The council noted that journalists play a critical role in democratic societies by informing the public, providing platforms for diverse opinions and reporting political activities objectively.
It said journalists must therefore be allowed to perform their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.
The NUJ also raised concerns over the safety of journalists covering political activities, particularly large gatherings where media personnel may be exposed to security risks.
According to the council, reports that the attackers used machetes and knives to repeatedly strike the Radio Nigeria vehicle, despite the presence of security personnel inside, were particularly disturbing.
The union commiserated with the management and staff of Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM Kano, over the attack and damage to the station’s vehicle.
It also sympathised with the journalists and other occupants who were subjected to fear and distress during the incident.
While appreciating the efforts of security agencies in maintaining peace during public gatherings, the NUJ urged them to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, identify and apprehend those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
The council warned that failure to properly address such attacks could embolden perpetrators and further endanger journalists as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 elections.
It consequently called on political parties, political groups, their supporters and other stakeholders to respect the rights and safety of journalists and recognise the media as an indispensable partner in the democratic process.
The NUJ Kano State Council reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and the safety of journalists, saying it would continue engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that journalists in Kano can perform their professional duties without fear.
