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May 18, 2026 – Nigeria –
Journalist unions and media advocates in Nigeria have condemned an alleged attack on reporters covering All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections in Enugu State, raising renewed concerns about the safety of journalists reporting on political events. The incident reportedly involved a member of the Enugu State House of Assembly and supporters who allegedly obstructed and assaulted journalists attempting to cover the party primaries.
According to local media reports, journalists at the venue were verbally harassed and physically intimidated while carrying out their professional duties during the APC primary process. Witnesses alleged that some reporters were attacked after attempting to document activities surrounding the election exercise. The confrontation reportedly disrupted media coverage and created tension among journalists present at the event.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) strongly condemned the incident, describing it as an attack on press freedom and the rights of journalists to report freely on political developments. The organization warned that intimidation and violence against media workers undermine democratic accountability and restrict public access to information. The union also called on authorities to investigate the allegations and ensure the safety of journalists covering elections and political activities.
Media advocates stated that political events in Nigeria have increasingly become hostile environments for reporters, particularly during election periods when tensions are high. Journalist organizations have repeatedly warned about threats ranging from physical attacks and equipment damage to harassment and restrictions on access to political gatherings.
The alleged assault has intensified broader concerns regarding press freedom and the treatment of journalists by political actors in the country. Press groups argued that journalists must be able to cover electoral processes without fear of intimidation or retaliation. Several commentators also emphasized that attacks on reporters covering elections can weaken transparency and public confidence in democratic institutions.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger protections for journalists reporting on politics and elections across Nigeria. Advocacy organizations continue to urge political leaders, law enforcement agencies, and party supporters to respect press freedom and ensure that media workers can perform their duties safely and independently during public and political events.
Reference –
https://thesun.ng/nuj-fumes-as-enugu-lawmaker-attacks-journalists-covering-apc-primaries-2/
https://guardian.ng/news/nuj-condemns-hon-nnajis-alleged-assault-on-press-freedom/
