NUJ Accuses Federal Lawmaker of Using NSCDC to Intimidate Journalist, Threatens Coverage Ban
By Yahaya Idris, Lokoja
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Zone D, has condemned the arrest and detention of Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, Editor of Kogi Report, by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Kogi State, describing the action as a dangerous assault on press freedom and democratic values.
Addressing journalists during a press conference in Lokoja, NUJ Zone D Vice President, Adeiza Momohjimoh, described the circumstances surrounding the journalist’s arrest and detention as “grave and troubling,” warning that the development reflects an increasing pattern of intimidation against media organisations across some North-Central states.
“The Union is particularly disturbed by allegations linking a federal lawmaker, Leke Abejide, to the events that culminated in the arrest of the journalist,” Momohjimoh said.
He argued that if the lawmaker had any grievance regarding the publication, he ought to have explored the existing cordial relationship with the Kogi State Council of the NUJ for an amicable resolution, rather than allegedly resorting to security agencies.
“His alleged use of law enforcement agencies as instruments of intimidation and harassment against a journalist has no place in a democratic society,” he stated.
“Democracy thrives on tolerance, dialogue, accountability, and respect for dissenting opinions—not on the suppression of the media through coercive state powers.”
Momohjimoh also expressed concern over reports that NSCDC officials allegedly insisted they could not grant bail to Owoeye without approval from the federal lawmaker said to have lodged the complaint.
“No individual, regardless of status or political office, should be placed above the law or be allowed to wield authority over the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies,” he said.
“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.”
The NUJ stressed that disputes arising from media publications should be resolved through lawful channels, including the courts, rather than through arbitrary arrest and detention.
While condemning the actions of the NSCDC, the Union commended the Department of State Services in Kogi State for what it described as professionalism in handling complaints involving journalists.
“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,” Momohjimoh noted, urging other security agencies to emulate the DSS.
He further raised concerns over what he described as a growing hostility toward the media within the zone, citing a recent attempt by the Niger State Government to shut down a radio station.
“Such actions are condemnable, unconstitutional, and incompatible with democratic norms. They must never be allowed to happen again in any part of Nigeria,” he said.
Citing what it called the “ignoble conduct” of the Kogi NSCDC Command, the Union issued a stern warning, threatening to place an embargo on coverage of the agency’s activities if further acts of intimidation 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,” the Union declared.
The NUJ called for the immediate and unconditional respect for journalists’ rights, urging authorities at all levels to recognise the media as a critical partner in nation-building, accountability, and democratic development.
“We shall continue to stand firmly in defence of press freedom and the constitutional rights of journalists across the country,” Momohjimoh concluded.
