NUJ Demands Fair Retrial Of Kaduna Journalist Jailed Over Facebook Post

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has known as for an neutral investigation into the arrest and prosecution of Nagarta Radio journalist Farida Isiak, who was sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment or a fantastic of N1.75m over a Facebook put up criticising the police.

The union additionally urged the judiciary to make sure a good listening to at her retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026, and known as on the police to account for the circumstances surrounding her arrest and the reported detention of her dad and mom.

In an announcement on Thursday, NUJ National President Alhassan Abdullahi stated Isiak’s launch on bail had not resolved issues about freedom of expression, private liberty and the remedy of journalists who criticise public establishments.

“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,” the assertion learn.

According to the union, the incident reportedly started with a dispute over N100 steadiness from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mom and a neighbour.

Her mom was subsequently arrested, whereas her father was detained after going to the police station to safe her launch on bail.

The NUJ stated Isiak later offered herself on the police station however was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook put up in regards to the alleged remedy of her dad and mom.

She deleted the put up and apologised earlier than court docket proceedings that resulted in her sentence.

The union stated the 23-year-old journalist was later granted bail following the intervention of legal professionals, who prevented her quick switch to a correctional centre.

It stated the circumstances of the case required cautious examination to make sure that the defamation allegations had been dealt with in accordance with the regulation and that the rights of all events had been protected.

“Although journalists are not above the law and freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences, 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 assertion stated.

The NUJ expressed concern that legal proceedings in opposition to journalists following criticism of public officers might discourage residents from talking out in opposition to alleged misconduct.

It stated such instances required shut scrutiny to find out whether or not authorized proceedings had been getting used to intimidate these looking for accountability.

“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,” the assertion added.

The union known as on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to make sure a clear investigation into the incident, together with the reported detention of Isiak’s dad and mom and questions in regards to the conduct of police personnel.

It additionally urged judicial authorities to look at the preliminary proceedings, together with the court docket’s jurisdiction, the equity of the method and the authorized foundation for the reported sentence.

The NUJ stated the November 3 retrial ought to enable Isiak to current her defence with out intimidation or prejudice.

Citing Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, the union stated the provisions assured private liberty, honest listening to and freedom of expression.

It stated the protections utilized to all Nigerians, together with residents who query public establishments, specific opinions or search redress over alleged injustice.

“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,” the assertion learn.

The union known as on governments, regulation enforcement companies and judicial establishments to guard journalists and uphold the elemental rights of residents.

It additionally raised issues about entry to justice, saying authorized safety mustn’t rely on public consideration or a person’s means to safe illustration.

“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,” it stated.

The NUJ stated it could proceed to watch the case and supply help inside its capability, including that the end result of the retrial would have implications for public confidence within the administration of justice.