NUJ Demands Justice, Fair Hearing for Kaduna Journalist Farida Isiak
Our Reporter
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has demanded justice and a fair hearing in the case of 23-year-old Farida Isiak, a journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, following her reported arrest and sentencing over a Facebook post.
In a press statement dated October 22, 2026, and signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the Union said it was deeply concerned over the circumstances surrounding the case, which it described as raising fundamental questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and protection against possible misuse of public authority.
According to the NUJ, the incident originated from a dispute involving N100 change from a charcoal sale between Farida’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, and when her father went to secure her bail, he was also detained.
The Union said Farida subsequently presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents.
The NUJ said although Farida reportedly deleted the post and apologized, she was taken before a court in Kawo and reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of N1.75 million for defamation.
The Union said intervention by lawyers after the proceedings prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, while a retrial has been scheduled for November 3, 2026.
While welcoming the bail, the NUJ said the development must not be mistaken for resolution of the issues. The Union said it will continue to monitor the case and advocate for a fair, transparent and lawful judicial process.
The NUJ cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, which guarantee personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to impart ideas without interference, subject to the Constitution and applicable law.
The Union acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences, but said allegations of defamation must be handled in accordance with the law and with due regard for constitutional safeguards.
The Union expressed concern about the implications for press freedom and safety of journalists, noting that where a journalist faces criminal proceedings following criticism of public officials, the circumstances must be examined to ensure that lawful accountability is not undermined and that the legal process does not become a source of intimidation.
“Public institutions must remain open to legitimate scrutiny. Criticism of the police or any other public institution should be addressed through lawful and appropriate procedures, not through actions that could discourage citizens from reporting misconduct or expressing legitimate grievances,” the statement said.
The NUJ called on the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, to ensure an impartial, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding Farida’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents, and for any questions concerning police conduct to be addressed fairly and in accordance with law.
It also urged relevant judicial authorities in Kaduna State to ensure appropriate scrutiny of the proceedings, particularly concerning jurisdiction, fairness of the initial proceedings and legal basis for the reported sentence, and that the retrial scheduled for November 3 must be conducted impartially with full respect for fair hearing.
The Union reminded the Nigeria Police Force that the exercise of police powers must remain within constitutional boundaries, and called on public officials to recognize that constructive criticism is integral to democratic accountability.
“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,” the NUJ said.
The Union acknowledged the intervention of lawyers who helped secure Farida’s release on bail, but said access to justice should not depend on last-minute legal intervention, public attention or ability to afford expensive representation.
“The protection of journalists is inseparable from the protection of the public’s right to know. When journalists face intimidation for reporting on matters of public interest, the consequences extend beyond the individual concerned,” it said.
The NUJ said it stands in solidarity with Farida Isiak and will continue to follow developments while providing appropriate support within its mandate.
As of press time, the Kaduna State Police Command and the Kaduna State Judiciary had not issued official statements on the allegations contained in the NUJ statement.
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