NUJ and MRA Condemn Police Assault on Bauchi Journalist, Demand Immediate Probe
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, and the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) have issued a strong joint condemnation of the police assault on Mohammed Adamu, a staff member of Albarka Radio in Bununu, Tafawa Balewa Local Council of Bauchi State. The incident, which occurred during the Sallah celebration, has been described by the union as barbaric, unacceptable, and a gross violation of human rights.
NUJ Calls for Accountability and Investigation
In a statement released by the Council's Secretary, Isah Garba Gadau, the NUJ emphasized that the attack represents a direct threat to press freedom and highlights a disturbing pattern of misconduct by law enforcement officers. This act of brutality is a disgraceful show of lawlessness by officers who are expected to safeguard lives and property, the statement read. It further noted that the incident is particularly troubling as the NUJ intensifies advocacy for professionalism and accountability among security agencies.
The Council has called on the Commissioner of Police in Bauchi State, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, to immediately launch a thorough investigation into the assault. They demand that all officers involved be identified and appropriately sanctioned. Additionally, the NUJ insists that the Bauchi State Police Command take full responsibility for covering the victim's medical expenses, stressing that prompt action is necessary to demonstrate accountability and restore public confidence.
Failure to meet these demands may lead to further actions, including the convening of an emergency congress to determine next steps. The Council also urged media organizations across the state to remain vigilant and await further directives, reiterating its unwavering commitment to defending the rights, safety, and dignity of journalists. The NUJ will not tolerate intimidation, harassment, or brutality against journalists under any circumstance, the statement added.
MRA Demands Transparent Investigation and Prosecution
In a separate statement, the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) demanded an immediate, speedy, and transparent investigation into the incident. MRA called for the prosecution of all police officers involved and adequate compensation for the journalist, who suffered injuries from what they termed an unwarranted attack and egregious violation of his rights.
According to reports, Adamu was at the event venue performing his professional duties when he was stopped by police officers led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Jamilu Kabir, a Superintendent of Police (SP). Adamu stated that when he insisted on his right to cover the event, he was beaten by several officers despite identifying himself as a journalist. He was reportedly assaulted with sticks, resulting in head injuries that caused profuse bleeding, subjected to verbal abuse, and forced to leave the venue. He later received medical treatment for his injuries.
MRA's Programme Officer, John Gbadamosi, expressed deep concern, noting that this incident appears to be part of a disturbing pattern of harassment, intimidation, and physical attacks against journalists in Bauchi State and across Nigeria. Such actions by law enforcement officials not only violate the fundamental rights of journalists but also undermine the public's right to receive information, which is essential for the functioning of a democratic society, he said.
Gbadamosi highlighted that under the Constitution of Nigeria, as well as regional and international human rights instruments, journalists have the right to gather and disseminate information without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence. Security agencies have a duty to protect journalists in the course of their work, not obstruct or brutalize them.
He called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, to order an immediate, thorough, speedy, and transparent investigation into the incident, identify all officers involved, and ensure that those found responsible are prosecuted and punished accordingly. Gbadamosi also urged the IGP to take urgent steps to address recurring attacks on journalists by police personnel nationwide, including through effective training, clear operational directives, and strict disciplinary measures.
Broader Implications for Media Freedom in Nigeria
MRA further called on the Federal Government to demonstrate its commitment to protecting freedom of expression and media freedom by ensuring that security agencies respect the rights of journalists at all times, especially during public events where media presence is crucial for public accountability. The organization warned that the continued failure to hold perpetrators accountable for attacks on journalists encourages impunity and creates a climate of fear that threatens the survival of independent journalism in Nigeria.
This incident underscores ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Nigeria, with both the NUJ and MRA emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to safeguard press freedom and uphold human rights in the country.
