The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has given the Rivers State Police Command a 14-day ultimatum to issue a public apology over the alleged assault on five journalists during a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt or face a total media blackout across the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia, and Secretary, Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia, the union strongly condemned the actions of security operatives, describing the attack as “unprovoked, barbaric, and inhuman.”
The NUJ demanded the immediate identification and prosecution of the officers involved, warning that further attacks on media professionals would be “vehemently resisted.”
“The NUJ, as a watchdog of society, will not sit idly by while media practitioners are subjected to barbarism and brutality. Enough is enough,” the statement read.
Journalists reportedly assaulted include Charles Opurum of Channels Television, Allwell Ene of Naija FM, Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria Info, Ikezam Godswill of AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Super FM. According to eyewitness accounts, the reporters were tear-gassed while covering the protest, with Opurum allegedly beaten and detained by police officers.
The union expressed deep concern that a law enforcement agency tasked with protecting lives and property would turn its weapons on citizens, particularly journalists lawfully carrying out their duties.
While reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement with the police in the interest of national development, the NUJ warned that the existing cordial relationship between both institutions must not be taken for granted.
“We urge our members to remain calm and law-abiding, even as we expect the police authorities to take swift and appropriate action to address this gross violation of press freedom,” the union said.
