By Khalid Idris Doya
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, has strongly condemned the alleged assault, intimidation and threats against journalists covering an official engagement at the Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi State on Tuesday.
The incident reportedly occurred during the commissioning of a 500KVA solar power station at the game reserve and involved a Department of State Services (DSS) officer attached to a visiting delegation of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
The NUJ made its position known in a statement signed by its State Chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu, and Secretary, Isah Garba Gadau.
The Council expressed particular concern over reports that the officer allegedly slapped Bashir Adamu of the Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) three times while he was performing his legitimate journalistic duties, despite being properly identified as a member of the Bauchi State Government House Press Crew.
The NUJ Bauchi State Council described the alleged conduct of the officer as unacceptable, stressing that the journalists reportedly neither retaliated nor engaged in any physical confrontation but instead referred the matter to their leadership for appropriate action.
While recognising the responsibilities of security agencies in maintaining order and protecting public officials, the Council said such responsibilities must be exercised within the law and with full respect for the rights and dignity of accredited journalists carrying out legitimate professional duties.
The NUJ Bauchi State Council therefore demanded an immediate and thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities into the incident and the identification of the DSS officer involved.
It also demanded appropriate disciplinary and legal action against the officer, if found culpable, in accordance with the law and relevant regulations.
The Council further called for assurances from the DSS and other security agencies that journalists covering official engagements in Bauchi State would be protected from intimidation, harassment, assault and other forms of unlawful interference.
The NUJ also urged authorities organising official events to ensure that security personnel deployed to such events are properly briefed on the roles and rights of accredited journalists.
"The Council views the safety of journalists as non-negotiable and will not remain silent whenever its members are subjected to assault or intimidation in the course of their legitimate professional duties," the statement said.
The NUJ Bauchi State Council called on all security agencies to uphold professionalism and respect for press freedom, which remains fundamental to democracy and accountable governance.
The Council also urged its members to remain professional, law-abiding and committed to responsible journalism while carrying out their duties.
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