NUJ condemns harassment of journalists, raises security, public welfare concerns

Etim Ekpimah

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned the recent harassment of journalists while carrying out their lawful duties within court premises, insisting that media practitioners must be allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation, obstruction or undue interference.

The union called on relevant authorities to uphold press freedom and guarantee the safety and protection of journalists at all times.

The position formed part of the resolutions reached during the congress of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the congress expressed concern over growing security challenges in Eket Local Government Area, particularly the increasing influx of people engaged in commercial motorcycle transportation, scrap metal trading and scavenging activities.

While acknowledging Nigerians’ constitutional right to reside and work in any part of the country, the congress urged local authorities and security agencies to ensure proper profiling and monitoring of individuals and activities in the area, in the interest of public safety and security.

The congress also raised concerns over the activities of scrap metal dealers and scavengers operating in different parts of the state. It called on security and regulatory agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, to strengthen monitoring and verification processes to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations.

On infrastructure, the congress commended the Federal Government for the ongoing reconstruction of the Calabar–Itu Highway, noting the progress achieved so far. We asked contractors and relevant authorities to provide adequate drainage infrastructure along the route to address persistent flooding in affected communities, which has displaced residents and caused hardship.

The journalists’ body also applauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for inaugurating the Ibom International Hospital, describing the development as a major milestone in improving healthcare delivery and promoting medical tourism in the state.

It further urged the government to accelerate the completion and full operationalisation of the Ibom Specialist Hospital to expand access to quality healthcare services for residents.

The congress expressed appreciation to the state government for appointing a member of the NUJ to the State Road Maintenance Committee, noting that the appointment reflected confidence in the media profession and had further strengthened relations between government and journalists in the state.

The union also expressed concern over overcrowding in correctional facilities, especially the large number of awaiting-trial inmates at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre. It urged the Judiciary and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system to expedite the hearing and determination of pending cases to decongest custodial facilities and improve the administration of justice.

Addressing environmental and public health issues, the congress called on the Eket Local Government Council and relevant environmental agencies to regulate the open processing of cow skin and related activities within the area, warning that the practice poses sanitation, environmental and public health risks to surrounding communities.

The congress reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism, defending press freedom, supporting good governance and contributing to the socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

It also celebrated members who marked their birthdays in June, describing the gesture as part of efforts to foster unity, love and comradeship within the union.

The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Comrade Blessing Isonguyo; Secretary of the Committee, Comrade Charles Bassey; committee member, Comrade Unyime Bassey; NUJ State Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo; and NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John.