The Kogi State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has threatened to take legal action against the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) over the arrest and detention of the Publisher of Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye.
Speaking at a press conference in Lokoja on Sunday, the Vice Chairman of NUJ Zone D, Adeiza Momohjimoh, condemned the arrest and detention of the journalist, describing the incident as a threat to press freedom and democratic governance.
Momohjimoh expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of intimidation and harassment of journalists and media organisations across some states in North-Central Nigeria.
He said the union was particularly disturbed by allegations linking a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Abejide, to the circumstances that led to Owoeye’s arrest.
According to him, if the lawmaker had concerns about any publication, he should have explored existing channels, including engaging the Kogi State Council of the NUJ, to seek an amicable resolution.
The NUJ official argued that the alleged use of law enforcement agencies to address grievances arising from media reports was inconsistent with democratic principles, stressing that democracy thrives on dialogue, tolerance, accountability and respect for differing opinions.
Momohjimoh also raised concerns over reports that NSCDC officials allegedly insisted that Owoeye could not be granted bail without the approval of the federal lawmaker said to have initiated the complaint.
He noted that such a position, if true, would raise serious questions about the independence, professionalism, and impartiality expected of security agencies.
“No individual, regardless of status or political office, should be placed above the law or be allowed to exercise authority over the constitutional powers and responsibilities of security agencies,” Momohjimoh stated.
He maintained that disputes arising from media publications should be resolved through lawful channels, particularly the courts, rather than through arbitrary arrest and detention.
While criticising the NSCDC’s handling of the matter, the NUJ Zone D leadership commended the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State for what it described as its professional handling of complaints involving journalists.
Momohjimoh said the agency’s leadership had demonstrated an understanding of the role of the media in a democratic society and had maintained cordial relations with journalists in the state.
He urged other security and law enforcement agencies to emulate the DSS by promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to due process.
The union also expressed concern over what it described as increasing hostility towards the media within the North-Central zone, citing a recent attempt by the Niger State Government to shut down a radio station.
According to the NUJ, such actions are unconstitutional, condemnable, and incompatible with democratic norms.
Reaffirming the union’s commitment to defending press freedom, Momohjimoh warned that the NUJ could impose an embargo on the coverage of NSCDC activities in Kogi State if the agency engages in further acts perceived as aggression against journalists.
He called on authorities at all levels to respect the rights of media practitioners and recognise the role of the press as a critical partner in nation-building, accountability and democratic development.
The NUJ Zone D Vice Chairman declared that the union would continue to stand firmly in defence of press freedom and the constitutional rights of journalists across Nigeria.
