The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council has expressed deep concern over a recent report by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) that ranked Imo as the most hostile state for journalism practice in Nigeria.
In a press statement issued by the State Chairman of the Union, Precious Nwadike, the NUJ described the findings as a "disturbing reality" that confirms the "perilous environment against press freedom" in the state.
According to the CJID's Openness Index Report unveiled in Abuja by Professor Victor Ayedun-Aluma of the University of Jos, Imo State ranked last (37th) out of 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory with a score of 40.70%.
"This score highlights the severe challenges journalists face in carrying out their constitutional duties, far below even Bauchi (35th, 42.69%) and Lagos (22nd, 48.93%)," Nwadike stated.
The NUJ chairman noted that the ranking was not surprising but rather a "grim validation" of the challenges Imo journalists face while performing their duties. He added that the state has become "synonymous with hostility, insecurity, and danger for journalists and other media professionals" leading to what he described as a "total silencing of the press."
Nwadike cited several cases of alleged attacks on journalists, including Chinonso Uba, who reportedly faced multiple attacks and unlawful detention; Chidiebube Okeoma and others who were allegedly beaten by security agencies; and Obinna Akuwudike, who is currently in police custody.
The statement also accused the state government, through its spokesperson and Commissioner of Information, Declan Emelumba, of attempting to factionalise media bodies and impose leadership on the union, which Nwadike claimed contributed significantly to the disunity among members.
"Attempts to handpick union leadership and impose Correspondents' Chapel heads point to a desperate desire to control and bridle the press. Whatever be the case, hostility to journalists is hostility to truth, justice, and the fundamental rights of all Imo residents. It is an assault on our shared humanity and public sensibility," the statement read.
The NUJ advised the state government to use the report as an opportunity to improve its relationship with the media rather than resorting to "name calling." The union called on the government to create an environment that guarantees journalists' safety, upholds press freedom, and holds those responsible for repression accountable.
"The CJID report serves as an international indictment of press freedom conditions in Imo State. It vindicates the persistent warnings from the Imo NUJ and vocal citizens who have faced intimidation. This report further indicates that truth cannot be hidden and should serve as a call-out to all defenders of democracy: Imo State must end its war on journalism," Nwadike concluded.
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