NUJ Condemns Assault on Journalist at PDP Secretariat, Demands Apology

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has condemned the assault on Mr. Ndubuisi Orji, a journalist with The Sun Newspaper, allegedly carried out by a staff member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Emmanuel Okoronkwo.

The incident occurred on Monday, January 5, 2025, at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, as Orji attempted to enter the press center to perform his lawful duties.

NUJ’s Reaction

In a statement signed by the council’s Secretary, Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ described the attack as “irresponsible, uncivilized, unwarranted, and an affront to press freedom.”

The union demanded an unreserved apology from the PDP within 48 hours and vowed to pursue the matter with relevant security authorities if the party failed to comply.

Account of the Incident

Orji recounted that Okoronkwo violently prevented him from accessing the press center, citing orders from the PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, to bar journalists from the secretariat.

“As I was heading to my car, Okoronkwo descended on me with a series of slaps and assaulted me until private security guards intervened.

He even damaged my mobile phone and threatened to deal with me,” Orji said.

Senator Anyanwu Denies Involvement

In response, Senator Anyanwu denied issuing any directive to bar or assault journalists, explaining that the party was on holiday at the time of the incident.

“They reported the matter to the police, but I have asked the journalist to come on his own time so I can investigate the issue. I was not there, nor did I give any such order,” Anyanwu stated.

NUJ’s Demands

The NUJ condemned the assault as “reckless, ignoble, and reprehensible” and insisted that such behavior has no place in a democratic society.

“Any form of assault on a journalist is an affront to press freedom and the right of citizens to access accurate and unbiased information.

Such actions undermine the integrity of the media and democratic principles,” the statement read.

The NUJ called for:

1. An immediate public apology from the PDP and its staff, to be published in two national dailies within 48 hours.
2. Replacement of the journalist’s damaged mobile phone.

Failure to meet these demands, the union warned, would compel it to seek legal redress to ensure justice for its member.

The NUJ reiterated its commitment to protecting journalists and ensuring they perform their duties without fear of intimidation or retribution.