Isiyaku Ahmed
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, has condemned the attack on journalists covering the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, reportedly involved suspected thugs who attacked journalists and damaged a Radio Nigeria and Pyramid FM vehicle.
In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Kano State Council Chairman, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, and Secretary, Comrade Hauwa Suleiman Zahradeen, the union described the attack as unacceptable and a serious threat to press freedom.
The Council said journalists should not be attacked, intimidated or harassed while carrying out their legitimate professional responsibilities, particularly when covering political activities.
It expressed concern that the incident occurred during a political gathering at a time when political activities are gradually intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the NUJ, attacks on journalists covering political events constitute not only an attack on the media but also a setback to democracy, stressing that a free and independent press is essential to an informed citizenry and credible democratic process.
The Council said journalists play a critical role in democratic societies by informing the public, providing platforms for diverse views and reporting political activities objectively.
It therefore called for adequate protection for journalists covering political activities, especially at large gatherings where media professionals could be exposed to security risks.
The union said it was particularly disturbed by reports that attackers used machetes and knives to repeatedly strike the Radio Nigeria vehicle despite the presence of security personnel inside.
The NUJ commiserated with the management and staff of Radio Nigeria, Pyramid FM Kano, over the incident and sympathized with the journalists and other occupants who were subjected to fear and distress.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies in maintaining peace during public gatherings, the Council called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
It urged the authorities to identify and apprehend those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
The union warned that failure to address attacks of this nature could embolden perpetrators and further expose journalists to danger as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
The NUJ also urged political parties, groups, supporters and other stakeholders to respect the rights and safety of journalists and recognize the media as an indispensable partner in the democratic process.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and the safety of journalists, saying it would continue to engage relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that journalists in Kano can perform their professional duties without fear.
