By Chioma James
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned the brutal assault on Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalist, John Okunyomih, by security operatives during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja. Okunyomih was manhandled and had his camera and equipment damaged while covering the protest near the Unity Fountain.
In a statement, NUJ Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, described the attack as “a gross violation of press freedom and an affront to democratic principles”. The union is demanding an immediate investigation into the incident and replacement of the journalist’s damaged camera and equipment.
The incident occurred on Monday, October 20, 2025, when Okunyomih was covering the protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Security agents deployed to disperse the protesters allegedly attacked Okunyomih, damaging his professional camera and other equipment.
The NUJ has called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Dantawaye Miller, to identify and sanction the officers responsible for the assault. The union reiterated its commitment to protecting journalists’ rights and ensuring accountability for attacks on media professionals.
“This incident is a clear example of the disregard for press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria,” Oyekunle said. “We will not tolerate such attacks and will take all necessary steps to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
The NUJ has also urged security agencies to respect journalists’ rights and allow them to carry out their duties without intimidation or harassment. “Journalists are not enemies of the state, but partners in nation-building,” Oyekunle emphasized.
The assault on Okunyomih has sparked widespread condemnation from media organizations and civil society groups. The International Press Institute (IPI) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have both called for an investigation into the incident and urged the Nigerian authorities to ensure the safety of journalists.
Okunyomih, who has been released, reportedly received support from the French Embassy, which has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities. The AFP has also issued a statement condemning the attack and demanding that those responsible be held accountable.
The NUJ has vowed to take up the matter with the relevant authorities and ensure that Okunyomih receives justice. “We will not rest until those responsible for this attack are brought to book,” Oyekunle said.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for security agencies to respect press freedom and protect journalists’ rights. The NUJ’s stance on this matter sends a strong message to security agencies and perpetrators of attacks on journalists that such actions will not be tolerated.
The NUJ’s demands for an investigation and replacement of the damaged equipment are a crucial step towards ensuring accountability and protecting journalists’ rights in Nigeria.