Says attack on accredited reporter unacceptable, urges security agencies to respect press freedom
BAUCHI, August 25, 2026 — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, has condemned the alleged assault, intimidation and threat against journalists covering an official engagement at Yankari Game Reserve, demanding an immediate investigation and appropriate action against the security officer involved.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday during the commissioning of a 500kVA solar power station at the game reserve and allegedly involved an officer of the Department of State Services (DSS) attached to a visiting delegation of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Bauchi State Chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu, and Secretary, Isah Garba Gadau, the union expressed serious concern over reports that the DSS officer allegedly slapped Bashir Adamu of the Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) three times while the journalist was carrying out his professional duties.
According to the NUJ, Adamu was properly identified as a member of the Bauchi State Government House Press Crew at the time of the incident.
The union described the alleged conduct as unacceptable, noting that the affected journalists neither retaliated nor engaged the officer in any physical confrontation, but instead reported the matter to their leadership for appropriate action.
While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to maintain order and protect public officials, the NUJ stressed that such duties must be performed within the confines of the law and with respect for the rights and dignity of accredited journalists.
The Council consequently demanded an immediate and thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify the DSS officer allegedly responsible.
It also called for appropriate disciplinary and legal action should the officer be found culpable, in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
The union further demanded assurances from the DSS and other security agencies that journalists covering official engagements in Bauchi State would be protected against intimidation, harassment, assault and other forms of unlawful interference.
According to the Council, authorities responsible for organising official events must ensure that security personnel deployed to such occasions are adequately briefed on the responsibilities and rights of accredited journalists.
“The Council views the safety of journalists as non-negotiable and will not remain silent whenever its members are subjected to assault or intimidation in the course of their legitimate professional duties,” the statement said.
The NUJ called on security agencies to uphold professionalism and respect press freedom, describing a free and unhindered press as fundamental to democracy and accountable governance.
It equally urged journalists across the state to remain professional, law-abiding and committed to responsible journalism while discharging their constitutional and professional responsibilities.
The development occurred as activities at Yankari Game Reserve highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure at the iconic tourism destination, including the commissioning of the 500kVA solar power system.
Published by Alphapressmedia
