…Stresses commitment to press freedom
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has applauded the decisive intervention of the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, in ordering the immediate release of two journalists that were arrested in Jos, the Plateau State capital, during the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The two journalists were arrested and detained following the alleged posting of a video report on social media showing a confrontation between a cleric and security operatives at the funeral.
Their arrest stirred serious concern within the journalism community, as it represented an infringement on press freedom and the right of journalists to perform their lawful duties.
The NUJ, in a statement by its National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, noted that the gesture reflected a positive and commendable shift in the culture of the nation’s security institutions.
The NUJ President specifically said that the willingness of the DSS leadership to admit errors, apologise where necessary, and commit to reforms is an important step in strengthening public trust and confidence in the agency.
Abdullahi also said that the DG, DSS personally reached out to the Union to convey his apologies, and reiterated his directive to the operatives of the Service to conduct thorough investigations before making arrests.
The NUJ urged the DSS to sustain the new approach and ensure that the rights of journalists and other citizens are fully respected at all times.
In the words of Abdullahi; “Press freedom is the bedrock of democracy, and journalists must never be treated as adversaries for performing their constitutional duties.
“While we commend this positive development, we call on the DSS and all security agencies to institutionalise accountability by sanctioning officers whose actions undermine democratic values and constitutional rights. Only by enforcing discipline within the ranks can such progress be consolidated,” he said.
While welcoming the prompt release of the journalists, namely; Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang of Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, Plateau State, who were arrested while covering the funeral of the late mother of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the NUJ President urge journalists across the country to remain vigilant, courageous, and professional in the discharge of their duties.
Abdullahi further said; “On our part, the NUJ remains committed to constructive engagement with security institutions to strengthen mutual understanding, promote professionalism, and safeguard both press freedom and national security”.
