NUJ seeks justice for Kaduna journalist facing retrial over Facebook post

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for a fair, transparent and lawful retrial of Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, who was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a ₦1.75 million fine over a Facebook post deemed defamatory to the police.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the case raised serious concerns about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the potential misuse of public authority.

According to reports, the incident began with a dispute over ₦100 change from a charcoal sale involving Farida’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was arrested, while her father was also detained after going to secure her bail.

Farida subsequently presented herself at the police station, where she was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents.

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Although she deleted the post and apologised, she was taken before a court in Kawo and sentenced. Lawyers later intervened, preventing her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, with her retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026.

The NUJ welcomed her release but stressed that it did not resolve the broader legal and human rights concerns raised by the case.

The union cited Sections 39, 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provide for freedom of expression, personal liberty and the right to a fair hearing.

It said these constitutional protections applied to all Nigerians, including those who express opinions, question the conduct of public institutions or seek redress over alleged injustice.

While acknowledging that journalists are not above the law, the NUJ maintained that defamation allegations must be handled in accordance with established legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.

The union expressed concern that criminal proceedings against journalists following criticism of public officials could have implications for press freedom and discourage citizens from reporting alleged misconduct.

It therefore called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure an impartial, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding Farida’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents.

The NUJ also urged judicial authorities in the 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.

It stressed that the November 3 retrial must be conducted impartially, with full respect for Farida’s right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.

The union further called on the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that its powers are exercised within the limits of the Constitution and applicable laws, adding that allegations of misconduct should be addressed through established procedures.

It urged all tiers of government, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen protections for journalists and uphold the fundamental rights of citizens.

According to the NUJ, freedom of expression extends beyond journalists to ordinary citizens, including traders, students, workers and parents who speak out against perceived wrongdoing or demand accountability from public authorities.

The union also commended the lawyers who helped secure Farida’s release, noting that their intervention highlighted the importance of an independent legal profession and an active civil society.

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.

The NUJ said the protection of journalists was inseparable from the public’s right to know, warning that intimidation over reporting or commentary on matters of public interest could undermine democratic accountability.

“Protecting Farida is not merely about defending one journalist. It is about upholding the constitutional rights of every Nigerian and preserving a democratic society in which citizens can question authority, demand accountability and seek justice without fear of unlawful punishment,” the union said.

The NUJ reaffirmed its solidarity with Farida and pledged to continue monitoring her case while providing 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 union added.