NUJ Condemns alleged assault on journalists by Reps member, Nnaji

ByVenica Uchechukwu Enugu 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Enugu State Council, strongly condemns the shameful, undemocratic, and unacceptable conduct allegedly exhibited by the member representing Nkanu East and Nkanu West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Nnoli Nnaji, against journalists at the venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election in the State, 

The Nations News reports that the attack told place at Abakiliki Road, GRA, Enugu.

It is both shocking and embarrassing that a sitting federal lawmaker would allegedly harass, intimidate, and forcefully chase away journalists who were officially invited by the APC leadership to cover the exercise in line with their constitutional and professional responsibilities.

The Council also finds disturbing reports that Hon. Nnaji allegedly ordered some thugs to chase journalists away from the centre where the results of the primaries were to be announced, an action that further heightened tension and created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation around the electoral process.

In a statement signed by the NUJ Chairman Enugu State Council, Comrade Obinna Ogbuka said that NUJ views these actions as a direct assault on press freedom, democracy, and the fundamental rights of journalists to carry out their lawful duties without fear, harassment, or intimidation.

The Council is particularly disturbed by the alleged threats made against journalists by Hon. Nnaji, including reports that he boasted that the APC no longer needs the support of journalists and the people of Enugu State to win elections. 

Such reckless and inflammatory statements expose a dangerous mindset that has no place in a democratic society and raise serious concerns about the transparency and credibility of activities surrounding the exercise.

For a public office holder who swore to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to openly intimidate journalists and allegedly deploy thugs against media practitioners is disgraceful, condemnable, and a clear abuse of power.

The NUJ therefore calls on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the incident and unravel the circumstances surrounding the harassment and obstruction of journalists at the venue.

The Council warns that any further harassment, intimidation, or attack on journalists in Enugu State will not be tolerated. 

The media remains a critical pillar of democracy, and no politician, regardless of status or influence, has the authority to suppress the press or threaten media practitioners.

The NUJ Enugu State Council stands firmly with every journalist who was humiliated, threatened, or obstructed during the incident and assures members that the union will continue to defend the rights, dignity, and safety of journalists at all times.