The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed concern over the arrest of two journalists in Kano State and has urged Governor Abba Yusuf to facilitate their release.
In a letter dated March 27, 2025, NUJ National Secretary Achike Chude called attention to the detention of Buhari Abba, an online publisher, and Ismail Auwal, a freelance journalist. The letter alleged that the arrests were carried out on the orders of the state’s Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, following a report that was viewed as critical of him.
The NUJ emphasized that the journalists had not violated any legal provisions and were simply exercising their right to free speech. The letter also acknowledged the previously positive relationship between the state government and the media under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, expressing hope that this cooperation would continue to thrive.
The union reiterated the press’s role in holding government accountable and affirmed its commitment to responsible journalism that ensures fair and balanced reporting. It further reminded the governor that his recognition as an NUJ patron was intended to strengthen ties between his administration and the media.
The NUJ concluded by urging the governor to ensure that journalists in the state are treated with dignity and that press freedom is upheld in the interest of democracy and good governance.
Leave a Reply