The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the recent arrest of two journalists in Kano State and called on Governor Abba Yusuf to intervene in securing their release.
In a letter dated March 27, 2025, and signed by the union’s National Secretary, Achike Chude, the NUJ expressed concern over the detention of Buhari Abba, an online publisher, and Ismail Auwal, a freelance journalist.
According to the letter, their arrests were allegedly ordered by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, following a report deemed critical of him.
The NUJ maintained that the journalists had not violated any law and were merely exercising their right to free expression.
The letter highlighted the previously cordial relationship between the media and the Kano State government since Governor Yusuf’s inauguration and urged that this cooperation be upheld and strengthened.
The union reminded the governor of the significant responsibility media professionals have in holding the government accountable, assuring him that their work would continue to be carried out with respect, fairness, and professionalism.
The NUJ also emphasized that its recognition of Governor Yusuf as a patron was intended to reinforce positive engagement between his administration and the press.
Appealing for his intervention, the NUJ urged the governor to ensure that his officials uphold press freedom and respect journalists in the discharge of their duties.