NUJ Condemns Police Assault On Albarka Radio Staff In Bauchi

By Khalid Idris Doya 

The Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned the brutal and unacceptable assault allegedly carried out by some police officers on a staff member of Albarka Radio in Bununu, Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State during the Sallah celebration.

A statement issued by Isah Garba Gadau Secretary of the Union and made available to journalists on Monday, said the act of brutality is a gross violation of human rights, a direct attack on press freedom, and a disgraceful display of lawlessness by officers who are expected to protect, not harm, citizens. 

"It is particularly disturbing that such misconduct is occurring at a time when the NUJ is intensifying advocacy for professionalism and accountability among security agencies."

The NUJ Bauchi State Council therefore demanded that the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, should immediately investigate the incident and sanction all officers involved in this dastardly act.

In addition, the Union insists that the Bauchi State Police Command must, without delay, bear full responsibility for and settle all medical expenses incurred by the victim.

"Failure to meet these demands, it will compel the Union to summon an emergency Congress meeting to decide on the way forward," the union warned.

The Council further called on all media houses in the state to remain vigilant and await further directives as the Union will not relent until justice is served and the safety and dignity of journalists are fully guaranteed.

The statement added that NUJ will not tolerate intimidation, harassment, or brutality against journalists under any circumstances.