The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed appreciation for the swift release of its members, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang from Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, Plateau State, following their detention. The journalists were apprehended while reporting on the funeral of the late mother of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Their arrest came after a video circulated on social media depicting a tense exchange between a religious leader and security personnel during the funeral, an event attended by President Bola Tinubu alongside other prominent political figures.
This incident sparked significant alarm within the media fraternity, highlighting concerns over violations of press freedom and the obstruction of journalists’ rights to carry out their legitimate responsibilities.
In a statement, NUJ’s national president, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, praised the prompt action taken by the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi. He noted that Mr. Ajayi not only ordered the immediate release of the detained journalists but also personally contacted the NUJ to apologize and emphasized the importance of thorough investigations prior to any arrests by DSS operatives.
Abdullahi remarked, “This development signals a commendable transformation within our security agencies. The DSS leadership’s readiness to acknowledge mistakes, offer apologies when warranted, and pledge reforms is a vital move toward rebuilding public trust and confidence in the institution.”
He added, “The NUJ calls on the DSS to maintain this progressive stance and guarantee that the rights of journalists and citizens alike are upheld consistently. Freedom of the press is fundamental to democracy, and journalists must never be perceived as foes for fulfilling their constitutional roles.”
Furthermore, Abdullahi urged all security bodies to institutionalize accountability by disciplining officers whose conduct threatens democratic principles and constitutional freedoms. He emphasized that only through strict enforcement of discipline can such positive changes be sustained.
“The NUJ remains dedicated to fostering constructive dialogue with security agencies to enhance mutual respect, encourage professionalism, and protect both press freedom and national security,” he concluded.
“We encourage our members nationwide to continue demonstrating vigilance, bravery, and professionalism in executing their duties.”
