The Nigeria Union of Journalists has called for an impartial investigation into the arrest of Nagarta Radio journalist, Farida Isiak, in Kaduna State, following reports that she was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment over a Facebook post criticising the police treatment of her parents.
The union also urged the relevant judicial authorities to ensure a fair hearing during her retrial, scheduled for November 3, 2026, while calling on the police to account for the circumstances surrounding her arrest and the reported detention of her parents.
According to NUJ, Isiak, 23, was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of N1.75m for defamation after publishing a Facebook post about the incident.
She was subsequently granted bail following the intervention of lawyers, who prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre.
In a statement on Thursday, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, said her release did not resolve the concerns surrounding the case, particularly the implications for freedom of expression and the treatment of journalists who criticise public institutions.
“The union considers the circumstances surrounding Farida’s ordeal a matter of serious public interest, raising fundamental questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the protection of citizens against the possible misuse of public authority,” the statement read.
According to the union, the incident reportedly began with a dispute over N100 change from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour.
Her mother was reportedly arrested, while her father was detained after going to the police station to secure her bail.
The union said Isiak later presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post about the reported treatment of her parents.
She reportedly deleted the post and apologised before the court proceedings that resulted in her sentence.
The NUJ said the case required careful examination to ensure that allegations of defamation were handled in accordance with the law and that the rights of all parties 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,” it said.
The union expressed concern that criminal proceedings against journalists following criticism of public officials could discourage citizens from raising concerns about alleged misconduct.
“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.
It called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure a transparent investigation into the incident, including the reported detention of Isiak’s parents and any questions about the conduct of police personnel.
The NUJ also urged judicial authorities to examine the circumstances of the initial proceedings, including the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the process and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
It said the November 3 retrial should allow Isiak to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
The union cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provide for personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression, respectively.
It said the protections were not exclusive to journalists but applied to Nigerians who wished to express opinions, question 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.
The union further called on governments, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen protections for journalists and uphold the fundamental rights of citizens.
It acknowledged the lawyers who intervened to secure Isiak’s release on bail but warned against a system in which access to justice depended on public attention or the availability of legal representation.
“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,” the NUJ said.
The union said it would continue to monitor the case and provide support within its capacity, stressing that the outcome of the retrial would be important to 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 read.