The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded an investigation into the arrest and prosecution of 23-year-old Kaduna broadcast journalist, Farida Isiak, who was sentenced to four years in prison or a fine of ₦1.75 million over a Facebook post criticising the police.
Key Highlights
- NUJ demands probe into the jailing of 23-year-old Kaduna journalist Farida Isiak over a Facebook post.
- Isiak was sentenced to four years in prison or a ₦1.75 million fine before lawyers secured her bail.
- The case reportedly began with a ₦100 dispute over a charcoal sale involving her mother and a neighbour.
- Both of Isiak’s parents were reportedly arrested and detained by the police.
- NUJ urges a fair hearing at her retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026.
The union also questioned the circumstances surrounding the reported arrest and detention of Isiak’s parents, warning that criminal proceedings against journalists over their criticism of public institutions would undermine freedom of expression and discourage citizens from demanding accountability.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NUJ National President Alhassan Abdullahi called on the Kaduna State Police Command to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident and urged judicial authorities to ensure that Isiak receives a fair hearing at her retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026.
The union said Isiak’s release on bail has not resolved fundamental concerns about her prosecution, personal liberty, due process and the possible misuse of public authority.
How A ₦100 Dispute Led To A Prison Sentence
According to the NUJ, the incident reportedly began with a dispute over a ₦100 balance arising from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour.
Her mother was subsequently arrested, while her father was reportedly detained after going to the police station to secure her release on bail.
The union said Isiak later presented herself at the police station but was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the alleged treatment of her parents.
She subsequently deleted the post and apologised before court proceedings that culminated in her sentence.
The 23-year-old journalist was later granted bail following the intervention of lawyers, who prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre, according to the union.
Describing the case as a matter of serious public interest, the NUJ said the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s prosecution require careful scrutiny to establish whether due process was followed and whether her constitutional rights were 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 statement said.
The union warned that prosecuting journalists over criticism of public officials could create an atmosphere in which reporters and ordinary citizens become reluctant to expose alleged misconduct.
It said authorities must ensure that legal proceedings are not used to intimidate individuals seeking accountability from public institutions.
“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 statement added.
NUJ Calls For Police Probe, Review Of Court Proceedings
The NUJ called on the state commissioner of police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the reported detention of Isiak’s parents and the conduct of the police officers involved.
It also urged judicial authorities to examine the initial proceedings, including questions concerning the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the process and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
The union said the November 3 retrial must provide Isiak with an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
Citing Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, the NUJ said the case raises questions about the protection of personal liberty, the right to a fair hearing and freedom of expression.
It stressed that these constitutional safeguards apply to all Nigerians, including those who challenge the conduct of public institutions or seek 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 statement read.
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The union also raised concerns about access to justice, arguing that legal protection should not depend on public attention, emergency intervention by lawyers or an individual’s financial capacity.
“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 said.
The NUJ said it would continue to monitor the case and provide support within its capacity, adding that the outcome of the retrial could affect public confidence in the administration of justice.
“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 statement added.
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