The Kaduna State Chapter of the Society for Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) strongly condemns the arrest, detention and initial sentencing of 23-year-old journalist Farida Isiak, a reporter with Nagarta Radio, Kaduna State.
Reports indicate that the journalist was arrested following a Facebook post in which she criticised the alleged treatment of her parents by police officers over a disagreement involving ₦100 change from a charcoal sale.
Read also: NUJ DEMANDS JUSTICE, FAIR HEARING AND PROTECTION OF PRESS FREEDOM IN FARIDA ISIAK’S CASE
She was subsequently sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million by a Sharia Court in Kawo, Kaduna State.
A statement signed by Babangida Aliyu Abdullahi State Secretary,Society for Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) Kaduna State Chapter said the SNB Kaduna State Chapter is deeply concerned about the circumstances surrounding the arrest and the initial court proceedings, particularly reports that the journalist was convicted before her legal representatives could intervene. Such developments raise serious concerns about the protection of fundamental human rights, freedom of expression, access to legal representation and the right to a fair hearing.
Read also: KADUNA STATE PILGRIMS WELFARE AGENCY INTENSIFIES PREPARATIONS FOR 2027 HAJJ
While the Society recognises the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order, it insists that such responsibilities must be exercised within the provisions of the law and with full respect for citizens’ constitutional rights. No journalist should be subjected to intimidation, harassment or disproportionate punishment for expressing an opinion or raising concerns about the conduct of public officials.
The Society welcomes the subsequent intervention of the journalist’s legal representatives and the reported decision of the court to set aside the initial conviction and grant her bail. However, it calls for a transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding her arrest and the alleged detention of her parents.
The SNB Kaduna State Chapter urges the Kaduna State Police Command and other relevant authorities to ensure that due process is followed, the rights of the journalist are protected and any allegations of misconduct by security personnel are thoroughly investigated.
Read also: Shugaba Tinubu Ya Taya Kwankwaso Murnar Cika Shekaru 70
The Society also calls on media organisations, journalists, civil society groups and relevant government institutions to remain vigilant in defending press freedom, promoting professional journalism and ensuring that journalists can carry out their lawful duties without fear of intimidation or victimisation.
A free and responsible press is essential to democracy, accountability and good governance. Protecting journalists’ rights is not a privilege but a necessary condition for a just and democratic society.