The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned what it described as the growing wave of violence, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests targeting journalists across Nigeria.
In a statement commemorating the 2025 International Day to End Impunity Against Journalists on Monday, the Commission said it would intensify efforts to monitor and document violations against journalists, while strengthening collaboration with media organizations and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Speaking at a media parley in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, reaffirmed the Commission’s opposition to any attempt to shrink the civic space through arrests and intimidation.
“Attacks on journalists are attacks on our democracy and on the public’s right to know,” Ojukwu said.
“The NHRC remains steadfast in its mission to protect the rights of media professionals and to ensure accountability for perpetrators of such violations.”
He announced that the Commission would deepen collaboration with the NUJ, civil society groups, and international partners to enhance safety awareness and establish rapid-response mechanisms for the protection of journalists.
“Today’s parley is not just a celebration; it is a call to action. We recognize the media as a powerful ally in the fight for human rights. Your voices shape public opinion, expose injustice, and amplify the stories that matter,” he added.
In his remarks, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, emphasized that protecting journalists and promoting press freedom are essential to sustaining democracy and the rule of law.
Represented by the Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Ms. Grace Ike, Yahaya described press freedom as “non-negotiable.”
“Press freedom is not a privilege; it is a right. The NUJ maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment, intimidation, or attack on journalists, whether online or offline,” he said.
He noted that persistent impunity for attacks on journalists undermines national institutions and weakens democracy, calling on the NHRC to move beyond condemnations to decisive action.
“The Commission must exercise its investigative powers with vigour to ensure all abuses against journalists are thoroughly investigated and perpetrators are brought to justice,” Yahaya said.
“It is imperative that the NHRC works closely with law enforcement and the judiciary to ensure accountability, especially since security agents are often the culprits.”
The event also featured the unveiling of the official logo for the NHRC’s upcoming 30th anniversary celebration.
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