The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the reported four-year prison sentence handed to a Kaduna journalist over a Facebook post, raising concerns about the treatment of her parents and the fairness of the legal process.
The union urged judicial authorities to ensure a fair hearing for Farida Isiak, 23, a journalist with Nagarta Radio, whose retrial is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Isiak was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a fine of N1.75m for defamation after publishing a post criticising the police over the alleged treatment of her parents. She was later granted bail following the intervention of lawyers.
In a statement on Thursday, NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, said her release did not resolve concerns about the case, particularly its implications for freedom of expression, personal liberty and accountability by public institutions.
“The union considers the circumstances surrounding Farida’s ordeal a matter of serious public interest, raising fundamental questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and the protection of citizens against the possible misuse of public authority,” the statement said.
According to the union, the incident reportedly began with a dispute over N100 change from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour.
Her mother was allegedly arrested, while her father was detained after going to the police station to secure her bail.
The union said Isiak later presented herself at the police station but was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post about the reported treatment of her parents. She reportedly deleted the post and apologised before the court proceedings that led to her sentence.
NUJ called on the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police to ensure a transparent investigation into the incident, including the reported detention of Isiak’s parents and the conduct of the officers involved.
It also urged judicial authorities to examine the initial proceedings, particularly the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the process and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
The union stressed that journalists were not above the law but said defamation allegations must be handled in accordance with legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.
“Although journalists are not above the law and freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences, allegations of defamation must be handled in accordance with the law, with due regard for constitutional safeguards, the rights of all parties and the requirements of a fair hearing,” it said.
The union warned that criminal proceedings against journalists over criticism of public officials could discourage citizens from reporting alleged misconduct or demanding accountability.
It urged the court to ensure that Isiak could present her defence during the November 3 retrial without intimidation or prejudice.
NUJ cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which guarantee personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression.
It said these protections applied to all Nigerians, not just journalists, including citizens seeking to question public institutions or challenge alleged injustice.
“The right to freedom of expression belongs to every Nigerian,” the statement added.
The union also acknowledged the lawyers who secured Isiak’s release on bail but expressed concern that access to justice could depend on public attention or the availability of legal representation.
“Access to justice should not depend on the availability of last-minute legal intervention, public attention or the ability of an individual to afford expensive legal representation. Every Nigerian deserves the protection of the law and a fair opportunity to defend their rights,” it said.
NUJ said it would continue to monitor the case and provide support within its capacity, adding that the outcome of the retrial would be important to public confidence in the administration of justice.
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