…Demands immediate public apology, vows zero tolerance for intimidation of media practitioners
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has strongly condemned the harassment, intimidation, and verbal abuse meted out on Comrade Ladi Bala, Immediate Past President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Transport Reporter of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Kayode Opeifa.
On August 27, 2025, while covering the aftermath of the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment, Comrade Bala was allegedly subjected to demeaning verbal assault by the NRC MD, who disrupted her live reporting, used abusive words such as “you are stupid, your management is stupid, foolish woman, useless,” and even questioned her appearance.
Eyewitnesses said Opeifa went further to threaten her with removal from the scene by security operatives.
Attempts by NUJ officials to mediate were met with further hostility as Mr. Opeifa reportedly threatened to escalate the matter to security agencies, the Presidency, and NTA management, vowing to frustrate Bala’s professional duties in future NRC events.
In a statement signed by NUJ FCT Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the union described the act as “a blatant violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of journalists, especially women in the profession, and a grave threat to press freedom and democracy.”
The NUJ stressed that:
- Mr. Opeifa’s conduct contravenes Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantee freedom of expression and press freedom.
- Acts of intimidation against journalists undermine democracy, accountability, and the right of citizens to be informed.
- Growing hostility against the media by public officials must be checked to prevent a culture of impunity.
The union demanded an immediate, unreserved public apology from Mr. Opeifa and called on the NRC management to take decisive measures to forestall future occurrences.
“NUJ FCT Council condemns this act in its totality and reiterates its zero tolerance for harassment and intimidation of journalists. We stand in full solidarity with Comrade Ladi Bala and will explore all necessary channels to ensure accountability, protect press freedom, and safeguard the rights of journalists in the FCT and beyond,” the statement added.
The NUJ further urged relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure a safe and respectful working environment for media practitioners, recognizing their indispensable role in promoting transparency and democracy.
Reporting by Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Secretary, NUJ FCT Council