By: Sunday Etuka
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for a fair, transparent and lawful process in the case of Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, who was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a ₦1.75 million fine for defaming the police in a Facebook post.
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In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union said the case raises fundamental questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the possible misuse of public authority. It described the matter as one of serious public interest.
According to reports, the case began with a dispute over ₦100 change from a charcoal sale between Farida’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, and when her father went to secure her bail, he was also detained. Farida later presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post about the reported treatment of her parents.
Although she reportedly deleted the post and apologised, she was taken before a court in Kawo and reportedly sentenced. Lawyers intervened after the proceedings and prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, and a retrial has been fixed for November 3, 2026.
The NUJ welcomed her release but said it should not be mistaken for a resolution of the issues in the case. The union said it will keep monitoring developments and advocate a fair, transparent and lawful judicial process.
The union cited Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which guarantees freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference, subject to the Constitution and applicable law. It also pointed to Sections 35 and 36, which protect personal liberty and the right to a fair hearing.
According to the NUJ, these guarantees protect not only journalists but every Nigerian who wishes to express an opinion, question the conduct of public institutions or seek redress for an alleged injustice.
The union acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences. However, it said allegations of defamation must be handled according to the law, with due regard for constitutional safeguards, the rights of all parties and the requirements of a fair hearing.
It expressed particular concern about the implications for press freedom and journalists’ safety. Where a journalist faces criminal proceedings after criticising the conduct of public officials, the union said, the circumstances must be examined carefully so that lawful accountability is not undermined and the legal process does not become a tool of intimidation.
The NUJ added that public institutions must remain open to legitimate scrutiny, and that criticism of the police or any other institution should be addressed through lawful procedures rather than actions that could discourage citizens from reporting misconduct or voicing grievances.
The union made the following Demands:
Impartial investigation: The Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, should ensure an impartial, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances of Farida’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents. Any questions about the conduct of police personnel should be addressed fairly and in accordance with the law.
Kaduna State should ensure the proceedings receive appropriate scrutiny within the law, particularly on the jurisdiction of the court, the fairness of the initial proceedings and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
The union stressed that the retrial on November 3, 2026 must be impartial, with full respect for Farida’s right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
Police conduct: The Nigeria Police Force was reminded that its powers must remain within the Constitution and applicable laws, that allegations of misconduct should be investigated through established procedures, and that citizens’ rights must be respected at every stage.
The union also called on public officials to recognise that constructive criticism and public scrutiny are integral to democratic accountability.
Protection of rights: All tiers of government, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions should strengthen their commitment to protecting journalists and upholding citizens’ fundamental rights.
The NUJ said the right to freedom of expression belongs to every Nigerian, including the market trader who complains about misconduct, the student who questions wrongdoing, the worker who challenges injustice and the parent who demands accountability from public authorities.
It said journalists play a vital role in defending this freedom by amplifying citizens’ voices and bringing matters of public interest to society’s attention.
The union acknowledged the lawyers who helped secure Farida’s release, saying their action underscores the importance of an independent legal profession and an active civil society.
It added, however, that access to justice should not depend on last-minute legal intervention, public attention or the ability to afford expensive legal representation.
The NUJ said the protection of journalists is inseparable from the public’s right to know, and that intimidation of journalists for reporting on matters of public interest threatens the democratic space available to all citizens.
“Protecting Farida is not merely about defending one journalist. It is about upholding the constitutional rights of every Nigerian and preserving a democratic society in which citizens can question authority, demand accountability and seek justice without fear of unlawful punishment,” the union said.
The NUJ said it stands in solidarity with Farida Isiak and will continue to follow her case while providing support within its capacity and mandate.
“Freedom of expression is not a privilege granted by those in authority. It is a fundamental right that must be respected and protected under the law,” the union said.(The Fact Daily)
