The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has lauded the Department of State Services (DSS) for the prompt release of two detained journalists — Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang of Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, Plateau State — and for reaffirming its commitment to the protection of press freedom in Nigeria.
The journalists were earlier arrested while covering the funeral of the late mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe. Their detention followed the posting of a video report on social media that captured a brief confrontation between a cleric and security personnel at the event — an action that drew widespread concern within the media community.
In a statement signed by the National President of the NUJ, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the Union expressed appreciation to the Director-General of the DSS, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, for his swift and humane intervention.
According to the statement, “Mr. Ajayi not only ordered the immediate release of the journalists but also personally reached out to the NUJ to tender his apologies and reaffirm his directive that DSS operatives must conduct thorough investigations before effecting arrests.”
The NUJ described the gesture as “a positive and commendable shift in the culture of our security institutions,” noting that the DSS leadership’s openness to admit mistakes, apologise where necessary, and commit to internal reforms represents a bold step toward rebuilding public trust in national security agencies.
While commending this new approach, the Union urged the DSS to ensure that such actions are institutionalised, stressing that “press freedom remains the bedrock of democracy, and journalists must never be treated as adversaries for performing their constitutional duties.”
The NUJ also called on all security agencies to entrench accountability and discipline within their ranks, warning that officers whose conduct undermines democratic values should face appropriate sanctions.
“Only by enforcing discipline internally can such progress be sustained and deepened,” the statement emphasised.
Reiterating the Union’s readiness for constructive engagement with security institutions, Abdullahi added that the NUJ remains committed to promoting professionalism, mutual respect, and the protection of both national security and press freedom.
“We urge our members across the country to remain vigilant, courageous, and professional in the discharge of their duties,” the NUJ president concluded.
NUJ Hails DSS Over Release of Journalists, Commends Commitment to Press Freedom
