The Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has firmly demanded a public apology from the Rivers State Police Command within 14 days, following a disturbing incident where five journalists were violently attacked during a peaceful demonstration in Port Harcourt.
The union has warned that failure to comply will result in a comprehensive media blackout across the state.
In a press release jointly signed by Comrade Paul Bazia, Chairman of the NUJ Rivers State Council, and Dr Ijeoma Tubosia, the Council Secretary, the union expressed its outrage at the actions of police personnel involved in the incident.
The five media professionals affected by the attack were Charles Opurum from Channels TV, Allwell Ene of Naija FM, Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria Info, Ikezam Godswill from AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Super FM. These individuals were reportedly covering a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt when police officers descended on them without justification.
According to witnesses, the journalists were tear-gassed, with Charles Opurum particularly singled out beaten and unlawfully detained by security operatives.
The NUJ categorised the entire episode as “barbaric and inhumane,” branding it a flagrant breach of the journalists’ constitutional rights and professional responsibilities.
The union, known for its advocacy in defending press freedom and ethical journalism, has described the assault as an unacceptable violation of human rights and journalistic freedom. “As society’s watchdog, the NUJ cannot stand by while its members are brutalised for doing their jobs,” the statement read. “The continued harassment of journalists will no longer be tolerated. We say, enough is enough.”
The NUJ also pointed out that this was not an isolated incident but part of a growing pattern of hostility towards media practitioners in the region. The union warned that such treatment of the press is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for democracy and public accountability.
As part of its demands, the NUJ has insisted that all officers who participated in the assault be named and prosecuted according to Nigerian law. It called on the police authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that justice is served swiftly.
The union has further urged the Rivers State Police Command to take proactive steps in rebuilding trust with the media. According to the NUJ, the police must reaffirm their commitment to protecting citizens, including journalists, rather than infringing on their rights with violence and intimidation.
Despite the severity of the incident, the NUJ emphasised its willingness to maintain a constructive working relationship with the police. The union highlighted that cooperation between security agencies and the media is essential for peace, transparency, and national development.
“We remain committed to dialogue and collaboration,” said the NUJ. “However, we urge the police not to jeopardise this fragile relationship with further hostility.”
In light of the situation, the NUJ has called on its members to remain composed and continue to uphold the laws of the land while the union pursues justice through official channels. It expressed optimism that the police command would act responsibly by taking decisive corrective measures.
