As the world observes the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists today, 2 November 2025, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has renewed its call for stronger protection of media professionals and greater accountability for crimes committed against them.
In a statement signed by the National Secretary, Achike Chude, the Union expressed solidarity with journalists globally, describing them as “the voice and conscience of humanity” who often operate in “a treacherous minefield” while performing their duties.
The NUJ lamented the persistent culture of impunity surrounding crimes against journalists, citing UNESCO data showing that between 2006 and 2024, over 1,700 journalists were killed worldwide, with nearly 90 percent of cases remaining unresolved.
It warned that such impunity poses a serious threat to democracy and freedom of expression by undermining public awareness and constructive debate.
“If not checked, and perpetrators brought to justice, it signals great danger for the survival of nation states, leading to an acceleration toward authoritarianism,” the statement read.
While acknowledging ongoing global efforts by the United Nations to promote press freedom and protect journalists, the NUJ noted that Nigeria is not immune to acts of intimidation and impunity against the media.
The Union criticized the current Cybercrime Act as “rightfully maligned,” arguing that some government agencies have exploited it to harass journalists and stifle free expression.
It therefore called for the amendment of the law to expunge provisions “inimical to the free working of the press,” and urged governments at all levels to uphold their obligation to protect journalists and ensure justice for those attacked in the line of duty.
“Governments have a duty to protect journalists doing their jobs from the agency of those who have scant regard for the men and women of the noble profession,” the NUJ emphasized.
