Concerns over press freedom have again come to the fore following the arrest of two journalists, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang of Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, by operatives of the Department of State Services while covering the funeral of the mother of APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
The journalists were detained after posting a video showing an altercation between a cleric and security operatives, sparking outrage within the media community over what was seen as an infringement on press freedom and the right to lawful reporting.
Reacting to the development, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, commended the DSS for the prompt release of the reporters and the intervention of its Director-General, Oluwatosin Ajayi, who personally apologised to the Union and ordered stricter internal checks before future arrests.
NUJ President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, described the DSS action as a welcome departure from the culture of intimidation of journalists, noting that the service’s willingness to admit error and show accountability is a positive sign of reform.
The NUJ, however, urged the DSS to sustain this approach by disciplining erring officers and protecting journalists in the lawful discharge of their duties, stressing that press freedom remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
