The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed deep concern over the reported arrest, detention and sentencing of 23-year-old Farida Isiak, a journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, following a Facebook post in which she reportedly criticised the treatment of her parents by the police.
A statement signed by Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi ,National President ,Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) said the union considers the circumstances surrounding Farida’s ordeal a matter of serious public interest, raising fundamental questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the protection of citizens against the possible misuse of public authority.
According to reports, the incident originated from a dispute involving ₦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.
The statement said Farida subsequently presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents.
Although she reportedly deleted the post and apologised, she was subsequently taken before a court in Kawo and reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million for defamation.
The intervention of lawyers following the reported proceedings prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, while a retrial has been scheduled for November 3, 2026.
The statement said while welcoming Farida’s release on bail, the NUJ stresses that this development must not be mistaken for the resolution of the issues surrounding her case.
It said the Union will continue to monitor developments and advocate for a fair, transparent and lawful judicial process.
Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, 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. Sections 35 and 36 also protect personal liberty and the right to a fair hearing.
These constitutional guarantees are fundamental to a democratic society. They 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 NUJ acknowledges that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences. However, allegations of defamation must be handled in accordance with the law, with due regard for constitutional safeguards, the rights of all parties and the requirements of a fair hearing.
The Union is particularly concerned about the implications of this case for press freedom and the safety of journalists. Where a journalist faces criminal proceedings following criticism of the conduct of public officials, it is essential that the circumstances be examined carefully to ensure that lawful accountability is not undermined and that the legal process does not become a source of intimidation.
Public institutions must remain open to legitimate scrutiny. Criticism of the police or any other public institution should be addressed through lawful and appropriate procedures, not through actions that could discourage citizens from reporting misconduct or expressing legitimate grievances.
In view of these concerns, the Nigeria Union of Journalists calls for the following actions:
1. Impartial Investigation into the Circumstances of the Incident
The Union calls on the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, to ensure an impartial, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding Farida’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents. Any questions concerning the conduct of police personnel should be addressed fairly and in accordance with the law.
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2. Fair and Transparent Judicial Proceedings
The NUJ urges the relevant judicial authorities in Kaduna State to ensure that the proceedings receive appropriate scrutiny within the law, particularly concerning the jurisdiction of the court, the fairness of the initial proceedings and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
The Union emphasises that the forthcoming retrial, scheduled for November 3, 2026, must be conducted impartially, with full respect for Farida’s right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
3. The NUJ reminds the Nigeria Police Force that the exercise of police powers must remain within the boundaries of the Constitution and applicable laws. Allegations of misconduct should be investigated through established procedures, while the rights of citizens must be respected at every stage.
The Union also calls on public officials to recognise that constructive criticism and public scrutiny are integral to democratic accountability.
4. The NUJ urges all tiers of government, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen their commitment to protecting journalists and upholding the fundamental rights of citizens
The right to freedom of expression belongs to every Nigerian. It is the right of 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.
Journalists play a vital role in defending this freedom by amplifying the voices of citizens and bringing issues of public interest to the attention of society.
The Union acknowledges the intervention of the lawyers who helped secure Farida’s release on bail. Their action underscores the importance of an independent legal profession and an active civil society in protecting fundamental rights.
However, access to justice should not depend on the availability of last-minute legal intervention, public attention or the ability of an individual to afford expensive legal representation. Every Nigerian deserves the protection of the law and a fair opportunity to defend their rights.
As the foremost professional body representing journalists in Nigeria, the NUJ will continue to defend press freedom, promote responsible journalism and resist any unlawful attempt to intimidate journalists or suppress legitimate expression.
The Union maintains that the protection of journalists is inseparable from the protection of the public’s right to know. When journalists face intimidation for reporting on matters of public interest or expressing legitimate concerns, the consequences extend beyond the individual concerned and threaten the democratic space available to all citizens.
The NUJ therefore calls for fairness, restraint, accountability and respect for due process in the handling of Farida Isiak’s case. Her release on bail is welcome, but the forthcoming retrial must be conducted in a manner that inspires public confidence in the administration of justice.
The Union urges the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding her arrest, the reported detention of her parents and the initial court proceedings are addressed through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
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 NUJ stands firmly in solidarity with Farida Isiak and will continue to follow developments in her case, while providing appropriate 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.