The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has applauded the Department of State Services (DSS) for the release of two journalists, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang, of Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, Plateau State.
The duo were arrested after sharing a video on social media showing a confrontation between a cleric and security operatives during the funeral of the late mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, confirmed that the journalists regained their freedom following the intervention of the DSS Director-General, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi.
Abdullahi said the union noted the DG’s directive to operatives to conduct thorough investigations before making arrests and his assurance of respect for citizens’ rights in the discharge of duties.
He urged the DSS to sustain the gesture by ensuring that journalists can operate freely without intimidation, adding that press freedom remains vital to the sustenance of democracy.
The NUJ president further called on security agencies to establish accountability mechanisms that will sanction erring officers and prevent future violations of journalists’ rights.
He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to working with security institutions to promote professionalism, national security, and respect for constitutional freedoms.
