ABUJA, October 22, 2026 — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for justice, due process and protection of press freedom in the case of Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, who was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million over a Facebook post criticising the police.
In a press statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, on Thursday, the union expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s reported arrest, detention and sentencing, saying the case raises questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the exercise of public authority.
According to reports cited by the union, the incident began with a dispute involving ₦100 change from a charcoal sale between Isiak’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, while her father was also detained after going to secure her bail.
Isiak subsequently presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents.
The NUJ said that although the journalist reportedly deleted the post and apologised, she was taken before a court in Kawo and sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million for defamation.
The intervention of lawyers following the reported proceedings prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, while a retrial has been scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Welcoming her release on bail, the union said the development should not be mistaken for a resolution of the issues surrounding the case.
“The Union will continue to monitor developments and advocate for a fair, transparent and lawful judicial process,” the statement said.
The NUJ cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provide for personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression, respectively.
It said these constitutional protections extend beyond journalists to every Nigerian who wishes to express an opinion, question the conduct of public institutions or seek redress for alleged injustice.
The union, however, acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not grant immunity from lawful consequences.
It stressed that 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 NUJ expressed particular concern about the implications of the case for press freedom and journalists’ safety, warning that criminal proceedings following criticism of public officials could discourage legitimate scrutiny if constitutional safeguards were not respected.
It maintained that public institutions must remain open to accountability and that criticism of the police or other government institutions should be addressed through lawful procedures.
NUJ Calls for Police Investigation, Fair Trial
The union called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure an impartial, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents.
It also urged the relevant judicial authorities in Kaduna State to ensure that the proceedings receive appropriate scrutiny, particularly regarding the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the initial proceedings and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
The NUJ said the forthcoming retrial must be conducted impartially, with full respect for Isiak’s right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
It further reminded the Nigeria Police Force that its powers must be exercised within the limits of the Constitution and applicable laws, adding that allegations of police misconduct should be addressed through established procedures.
The union also called on all tiers of government, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen their commitment to protecting journalists and upholding the fundamental rights of citizens.
NUJ Commends Lawyers, Calls for Access to Justice
The union acknowledged the intervention of lawyers who helped secure Isiak’s release on bail, describing their involvement as an illustration of the importance of an independent legal profession and an active civil society in protecting fundamental rights.
However, it warned that access to justice should not depend on last-minute legal intervention, public attention or an individual’s ability to afford expensive legal representation.
“Every Nigerian deserves the protection of the law and a fair opportunity to defend their rights,” the statement said.
The NUJ maintained that protecting journalists was inseparable from safeguarding the public’s right to know, noting that intimidation of journalists over matters of public interest could threaten the democratic space available to all citizens.
It said it would continue to defend press freedom, promote responsible journalism and resist unlawful attempts to intimidate journalists or suppress legitimate expression.
The union called for fairness, restraint, accountability and respect for due process in handling Isiak’s case, urging the relevant authorities to address the circumstances surrounding her arrest, the reported detention of her parents and the initial court proceedings through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
Reaffirming its solidarity with the journalist, the NUJ said it would continue to follow developments in the case and provide appropriate support within its capacity and mandate.
“Freedom of expression is not a privilege granted by those in authority. It is a fundamental right that must be respected and protected under the law,” the statement added.
Signed:
Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi
National President
Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)
Date: October 22, 2026
