By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against journalists are brought to justice.
The union made the call in a statement by its President, Alhassan Yahya, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed annually on November 2.
The NUJ expressed concern over persistent cases of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, cyberbullying and other forms of violence against journalists in the course of carrying out their professional duties.
It warned that the failure to prosecute perpetrators of such crimes poses a serious threat to press freedom, undermines the rule of law and weakens democratic governance.
The union also urged security agencies to respect the constitutional responsibilities of journalists and recognise the media as partners in promoting accountability, transparency and democratic governance.
Furthermore, the NUJ called on government institutions, media organisations, civil society groups and international partners to collaborate in establishing effective safety measures and emergency support systems for journalists, particularly those working in high-risk environments.
Reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting media professionals, the union stressed that no journalist should have to risk personal safety, freedom or life for reporting the truth.
