NUJ FCT Marks Independence With Strong Call on Insecurity, Press Freedom

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

As Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence anniversary, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has raised alarm over growing insecurity, attacks on press freedom, and poor welfare for journalists.

NUJ Warns: Democracy Under Threat

In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, the council stressed that insecurity and suppression of press freedom remain major threats to democracy and national stability.

According to details obtained by Akahi News, the NUJ noted that the government has a constitutional duty to protect lives and property but has failed to do so effectively. The union referenced the recent killing of journalist Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, describing her death as a tragic reminder of Nigeria’s fragile security system.

“We cannot celebrate independence while journalists are hunted or silenced and citizens live in fear,” the council said, insisting that democracy dies in silence when journalists are unprotected.

Call for Reforms and Safer Working Conditions

The NUJ proposed community policing and possible state policing as part of long-term reforms. It also urged authorities to deploy modern surveillance tools, including CCTV systems in major cities, to strengthen public safety.

The union emphasised that journalists are not enemies of the state but defenders of democracy who risk their lives daily to amplify citizens’ voices and hold leaders accountable. It further demanded fair pay, improved working conditions, and psychosocial support for journalists exposed to trauma in dangerous reporting environments.

Honouring Somtochukwu Maduagwu

On the murder of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, the NUJ described her death as a national tragedy. She reportedly returned to Nigeria from abroad to serve with passion and professionalism.

“Her blood must not spill in vain. Let her memory ignite a renewed national commitment to protect journalists and confront insecurity with urgency and sincerity,” the statement read.

Stakeholders Urged to Unite

Akahi News gathered that the NUJ called on government, civil society, and the private sector to collaborate in safeguarding press freedom and rebuilding public trust in governance.

Reaffirming its commitment to ethical journalism, the council pledged to continue promoting truth, fairness, and national unity despite the dangers facing reporters across the country.

Akahi News will continue to follow up on the response of the Federal Government to the NUJ’s demands and whether concrete steps will be taken to address insecurity and press freedom challenges in the wake of Independence celebrations.

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