Farida Isiak: NUJ Demands Fair Trial, Questions Journalist’s Conviction

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for justice, due process and the protection of press freedom in the case of Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, who was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million over a Facebook post criticising the police.

The Union, in a statement issued on Thursday, October 22, 2026, expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s reported arrest, detention and initial court proceedings, describing the case as one that raises important questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty and the administration of justice.

According to reports cited by the NUJ, the incident began with a dispute over ₦100 change from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, while her father was also detained after visiting the police station to secure her release.

The statement said Isiak subsequently presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the alleged treatment of her parents.

Although she reportedly deleted the post and apologised, she was later taken before a court in Kawo, Kaduna State, where she was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of ₦1.75 million for defamation.

The NUJ said the intervention of lawyers prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, with a retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026.

Welcoming her release on bail, the Union stressed that the development did not resolve the broader concerns surrounding the case.

The NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the Union would continue to monitor the proceedings and advocate for a transparent judicial process that respects the rights of all parties.

The statement referenced Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which guarantees freedom of expression, alongside Sections 35 and 36, which provide for personal liberty and the right to a fair hearing.

According to the Union, these constitutional provisions are essential safeguards in a democratic society and protect citizens who express opinions, question public institutions or seek redress over alleged injustices.

The NUJ acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not exempt anyone from lawful accountability. However, it maintained that defamation allegations must be handled in accordance with established legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.

It also expressed concern that criminal proceedings involving journalists following criticism of public officials could have implications for press freedom and the safety of media practitioners.

The Union called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents.

It further urged the relevant judicial authorities to ensure that the proceedings receive appropriate scrutiny, particularly regarding the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the initial trial and the legal basis for the reported sentence.

The NUJ said the scheduled retrial must be conducted without intimidation or prejudice, giving Isiak a fair opportunity to present her defence.

It also urged the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that police powers are exercised within the limits of the law and that allegations of misconduct are addressed through established procedures.

The Union called on governments, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen measures for protecting journalists and upholding citizens’ fundamental rights.

It commended the lawyers who intervened to secure Isiak’s release on bail, noting that their action demonstrated the importance of an independent legal profession in protecting citizens’ rights.

However, the NUJ stressed that access to justice should not depend on public attention or an individual’s ability to afford legal representation.

The Union reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism and opposing unlawful attempts to intimidate media practitioners or suppress legitimate expression.

It maintained that protecting journalists was closely linked to safeguarding the public’s right to information, warning that intimidation of media professionals could discourage citizens from questioning authority and demanding accountability.

The NUJ urged the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s arrest, the reported detention of her parents and the initial court proceedings were addressed through appropriate legal and institutional channels.

The Union said it would continue to stand in solidarity with Isiak and follow developments in the case, while calling for fairness, restraint, accountability and respect for due process.

The statement was signed by Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, on October 22, 2026.

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