NUJ demands arrest of attackers over disruption of ARISE NEWS broadcast in Rivers

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violent disruption of a live ARISE NEWS broadcast in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The union said the attack occurred on January 2, 2026, when suspected political thugs assaulted an ARISE NEWS crew and confiscated their broadcast equipment during an interview at a hotel in the state capital.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday evening at the NUJ State Council Secretariat, the National Vice President for Zone F, Mr Opaka Dokubo, who represented the NUJ National President, described the incident as a clear indication of the growing threats to journalists’ safety.

“Journalists are apolitical professionals who must be allowed to carry out their duties without intimidation or harassment,” Dokubo said.

He explained that the media serves as a neutral platform for public engagement and should not be treated as a participant in political disputes.

“The media exists to promote peace, accountability and national development. It is not an enemy of any political group,” he added.

While acknowledging the swift response of the police following the distress call raised after the incident, Dokubo stressed that the recovery of stolen equipment alone did not amount to justice.

“The union demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of all those involved in the attack to serve as a deterrent and prevent a recurrence of such violence against journalists in the state,” he said.

Dokubo warned that the incident had serious implications for press safety ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging journalists to remain extremely security-conscious while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

He noted that accountability in the ARISE NEWS case was crucial to reassuring media practitioners operating in an increasingly tense political environment.

“Only those who remain alive can continue to tell stories that shape public discourse,” he said.

The NUJ described the attack as a “heinous act” and insisted that all those responsible must be brought to justice.