By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Vice President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D, Adeiza Momohjimoh, has condemned the arrest and detention of the Editor of Kogi Report, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, describing the action as a threat to press freedom and democratic governance.
Speaking at a press conference in Lokoja, Momohjimoh expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Owoeye’s arrest by the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), warning that such actions could undermine democratic values if allowed to persist.
The NUJ leader said the union was particularly disturbed by allegations linking a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Abejide, to the events that culminated in the journalist’s arrest.
According to him, disputes arising from media reports should be resolved through lawful and established channels rather than through intimidation or the deployment of security agencies.
Momohjimoh noted that if the lawmaker had concerns over the publication in question, he could have leveraged his cordial relationship with the NUJ to seek clarification or pursue an amicable resolution.
He stressed that the use of law enforcement agencies to harass journalists has no place in a democratic society, adding that democracy thrives on dialogue, accountability, tolerance and respect for differing opinions.
The NUJ vice president also raised concerns over reports that NSCDC officials allegedly insisted they could not grant Owoeye bail without obtaining approval from the complainant, a development he said casts doubt on the independence and professionalism expected of security institutions.
“No individual, regardless of political office or social status, should exercise influence over the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies,” he said.
Momohjimoh maintained that the administration of justice must be guided by due process and the rule of law rather than the wishes of private individuals.
He, however, commended the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State for what he described as its professional handling of complaints involving journalists and media practitioners, urging other security agencies to emulate the agency’s approach.
The NUJ official further decried what he called a growing pattern of hostility toward the media across some North-Central states, citing the recent attempt by the Niger State Government to shut down a radio station as an example of actions inconsistent with democratic principles.
Reaffirming the union’s commitment to defending press freedom, Momohjimoh declared that “an injury to one journalist is an injury to the entire profession,” warning that the NUJ could impose a media blackout on NSCDC activities in Kogi State if further acts perceived as intimidation against journalists occur.
He called on security agencies and public officials to uphold the rights of media practitioners and respect the constitutional role of the press in promoting transparency and accountability.
Headline: NUJ Zone D Condemns Owoeye’s Arrest, Threatens NSCDC Coverage Boycott