From Olu Samuel, Lokoja
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D has threatened to place an embargo on the activities of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State of the wave of current intimidation of journalists continued.
The warning came on the heel of the arrest and detention of Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, Editor of Kogi Report, by the NSCDC Kogi State Command.
Owoeye was arrested last week over a publication involving the lawmaker representing Yagba west Federal constituency.
Addressing a news conference on Sunday in Lokoja, the Vice President, NUJ, Zone D, Adeza Momohjimoh, said that the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident represent a dangerous trend capable of undermining press freedom and democratic governance in our country.
”The Union is particularly disturbed by allegations linking a federal lawmaker, Hon. Leke Abejide, to the events that culminated in the arrest of the journalist.
If indeed the lawmaker had any grievance regarding the publication in question, he ought to have explored the existing cordial relationship between him and the Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to seek an amicable resolution,” he noted.
He said that his alleged resort to 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 Vice President said.
Momohjimoh said that the reported insistence by officials of the NSCDC that they could not grant Owoeye bail without first obtaining the permission of the federal lawmaker alleged to have initiated the complaint was distressing.
”Such a position, if true, raises serious questions about the independence, professionalism, and impartiality expected of a law enforcement agency.
”No individual, regardless of status or political office, should be placed above the law or be allowed to exercise authority over the constitutional powers and responsibilities of security agencies.
”The administration of justice must remain guided by law, due process, and established procedures, not by the whims or approval of private individuals or political actors,” he added.
He said that political office holders and governments that consistently preach obedience to the rule of law must not be seen resorting to self-help or actions that undermine constitutional safeguards and fundamental rights.
”The rule of law demands that disputes arising from media publications be addressed through lawful and established channels, including the courts, and not through arbitrary arrest and detention,” he said.
The Vice President, however, praised the professionalism displayed by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State in handling matters relating to complaints against journalists and media practitioners.
The current leadership of the agency 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.
This approach has helped to promote mutual respect, dialogue, and adherence to due process whenever issues arise. We encourage other security and law enforcement agencies to emulate this exemplary conduct in their dealings with members of the press.
The Union equally expressed concern about the growing pattern of hostility toward the media in some states within the zone.
”We recall with dismay the attempt by the Niger State Government to shut down a radio station in recent times. Such actions are condemnable, unconstitutional, and incompatible with democratic norms. They must never be allowed to happen again in any part of Nigeria.
The Union, therefore, warned continued arrests and harassment of journalists in the zone may attract embargo on the activities of the NSCDC in Kogi State.
”An injury to one journalist is an injury to the entire profession. Consequently, owing to what the Union considers the ignoble conduct of the Kogi State Command of the NSCDC in the arrest and detention of Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, Editor of Kogi Report, 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.
The Union calls for immediate and unconditional respect for the rights of journalists, and urges all authorities to recognise the critical role of the media as a partner in nation-building, accountability, and democratic development adding that NUJ shall continue to stand firmly in defence of press freedom and the constitutional rights of journalists across the country.