THE Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the arrest and detention of its Secretary, Mr. Olalekan Akindoju, by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, describing the action as disturbing and unacceptable.
Mr. Akindoju, who is also the Head of News and Current Affairs at Rave 91.7FM/WSTV, was arrested in the early hours of Thursday and later released following interventions by concerned stakeholders.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Adeyemi Aboderin, the NUJ expressed concern over what it described as the arrest of a professional journalist without adequate investigation and verification.
The Council noted that the incident raised serious concerns about respect for press freedom, fundamental human rights and the rule of law.
According to the statement, journalists carrying out their constitutional responsibilities deserve protection and respect rather than harassment or intimidation.
The Council condemned what it termed the manner in which Mr Akindoju was arrested and subjected to unnecessary distress despite being a law-abiding citizen and respected media professional.
While acknowledging the intervention of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, and the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, which led to Mr Akindoju’s release, the NUJ maintained that the incident could have been avoided if proper due diligence had been carried out before the arrest.
The Council consequently demanded an unreserved public apology from the Nigeria Police Force to Mr Akindoju, his family, Rave 91.7FM/WSTV and the journalism profession for what it described as the embarrassment, inconvenience and reputational damage caused by the arrest.
The NUJ further called on the Police and other security agencies to always conduct thorough investigations and verify facts before taking actions capable of infringing on the rights and dignity of citizens, particularly media practitioners whose work contributes to democratic governance and public accountability.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists, the Council pledged to continue promoting a cordial working relationship with security agencies based on mutual respect, professionalism and adherence to the rule of law.
The Council also appreciated journalists, civil society organisations, stakeholders and members of the public who expressed concern and solidarity during the incident.