The Kaduna State Police Command has defended its handling of the case involving Farida Isiak, a journalist with Nagarta Radio, Kaduna, saying the matter arose from a social media post directed at the police and an officer’s family.
The command’s reaction followed a publication by an organisation alleging that Isiak was arbitrarily arrested and detained and hastily sentenced in what it described as an attempt to silence the media.
Farida confirmed her release to Daily Trust on Wednesday but declined further comment after Amnesty International issued a statement calling for her immediate release.
However, the police in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the matter stemmed from a Facebook post in which the journalist criticised the Nigeria Police Force and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Maraban Jos.
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The statement quoted Isiak as describing the police force as dysfunctional and accusing the DPO of failing as a leader, while making remarks about his wife.
According to the command, the incident followed a disagreement between the parties after a request made by the journalist.
It urged the public to consider the circumstances surrounding the case objectively rather than portraying it solely as an attempt to suppress press freedom.
The command also disclosed that the Commissioner of Police had personally intervened to facilitate an amicable resolution of the matter.
“In the spirit of mutual respect, professionalism, and the cordial relationship between the Kaduna State Police Command and members of the media, the Commissioner of Police personally intervened to facilitate an amicable resolution of the matter,” the statement said.
The police expressed concern over reports that condemned the command without adequate verification of the facts or efforts to obtain its position.
It said such reports could present an incomplete account of events and unfairly damage the reputation of the police and the individuals involved.
The command urged media organisations and practitioners to uphold accuracy, fairness, balance and responsible journalism, stressing the need to verify allegations and give all parties a reasonable opportunity to respond before publication.
It added that these principles were essential to building public trust and promoting constructive engagement between law enforcement agencies and the media.
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