Nigeria @65: NUJ FCT Urges Swift Action on Insecurity, Press Freedom, and Journalists’ Welfare

By Iyojo Ameh

As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has reflected not only on the gains of nationhood but also on the urgent challenges threatening democracy, safety, and freedom of expression.

In a statement signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, and made available to journalists, the union stressed that government’s foremost constitutional duty is the protection of lives and property.

However, the senseless and avoidable killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a promising young journalist, highlights the grim reality that insecurity remains a major national crisis.

According to the NUJ, true independence cannot be celebrated while journalists are hunted, silenced, or while citizens live in constant fear. The Council therefore renewed its call for comprehensive security reforms, including community and state policing as well as the use of modern surveillance technology such as CCTV across Nigerian cities. It urged the Minister of the FCT and relevant security agencies to act decisively, delivering concrete results rather than empty promises.

The Council emphasized that journalists are not enemies of the state but vital pillars of democracy—risking their lives daily to tell the truth, amplify citizens’ voices, and hold leaders accountable. It demanded improved working conditions, fair remuneration, and psychosocial support for journalists exposed to trauma and danger.

“As we commemorate this symbolic anniversary, we recommit ourselves to ethical journalism, rooted in truth, fairness, and the public interest,” the statement read. “But this task cannot be borne by journalists alone. Government, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to safeguard press freedom and uphold the ideals of justice and accountability.”

The NUJ described the death of Somtochukwu Maduagwu as not just a personal loss but a national tragedy. Having returned from abroad to serve her country with passion and professionalism, her untimely death must serve as a rallying point for urgent and sincere action to protect journalists and tackle insecurity.

On this Independence Day, the NUJ urged Nigerians to remember that democracy dies in silence, and silence prevails when the press is unprotected.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT Council.