NUJ Condemns Alleged Use of NSCDC to Harass Journalist, Threatens Coverage Embargo

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D, has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of the Editor of Kogi Report, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, by the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), describing the development as a serious assault on press freedom and democratic values.

Speaking at a press conference in Lokoja, the NUJ Vice President for Zone D, Mr. Adeiza Momohjimoh, described the circumstances surrounding the journalist’s arrest as “grave and deeply troubling,” warning that the incident reflects an alarming trend of intimidation and harassment of media practitioners across parts of the North-Central region.

Momohjimoh expressed particular concern over allegations linking a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Abejide, to the events that led to Owoeye’s arrest. He argued that if the federal lawmaker had any grievances regarding the publication in question, he should have taken advantage of the existing cordial relationship with the Kogi State Council of the NUJ to seek an amicable resolution rather than allegedly resorting to the use of security agencies.

According to him, “The alleged use of law enforcement agencies as instruments of intimidation and harassment against a journalist has no place in a democratic society. Democracy thrives on tolerance, dialogue, accountability, and respect for dissenting opinions, not on the suppression of the media through coercive state powers.”

The NUJ Vice President also expressed concern over reports that officials of the NSCDC claimed they could not grant Owoeye bail without the approval of the federal lawmaker alleged to have initiated the complaint.

“No individual, irrespective of political status or public office, should be elevated above the law or be allowed to exercise authority over the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies,” he stated.

“The administration of justice must remain firmly rooted in due process, the rule of law, and established legal procedures, rather than the wishes or approval of private individuals or political actors.”

Momohjimoh emphasized that disputes arising from media publications should be addressed through lawful and established judicial channels instead of arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention.

While criticizing the conduct of the NSCDC in the matter, the NUJ commended the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State for what it described as its professionalism and responsible handling of complaints involving journalists.

“The current leadership of the DSS in Kogi State has demonstrated a commendable understanding of the role of the media in a democratic society and has maintained a cordial and professional relationship with journalists in the state,” he noted, urging other security agencies to emulate the example.

The Union also raised concerns over what it described as a growing pattern of hostility towards the media within the zone, citing the recent attempt by the Niger State Government to shut down a radio station.

“Such actions are condemnable, unconstitutional, and inconsistent with democratic principles. They must never be allowed to recur in any part of the country,” Momohjimoh said.

As a consequence of what it termed the “unacceptable conduct” of the Kogi State NSCDC Command, the NUJ warned that it may impose an embargo on the coverage of the agency’s activities if further acts of intimidation or aggression against journalists occur.

“An injury to one journalist is an injury to the entire profession. Consequently, the Nigeria Union of Journalists hereby warns that an embargo may be placed on the coverage of the activities of the NSCDC in Kogi State should the agency engage in any further acts of aggression against journalists in the state,” he declared.

The Union called on all authorities to respect the constitutional rights of journalists and to recognize the media as a critical partner in promoting accountability, transparency, nation-building, and democratic governance.

“We shall continue to stand firmly in defence of press freedom and the constitutional rights of journalists across the country,” Momohjimoh concluded.