The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned the violent disruption of a live ARISE NEWS broadcast in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and has demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack.
The union said the incident occurred on January 2, 2026, when suspected political thugs assaulted an ARISE NEWS crew and seized broadcast equipment during a live interview at a hotel in the state capital. Addressing journalists at a press conference on Friday evening at the NUJ State Council Secretariat, the National Vice President for Zone F, Mr. Opaka Dokubo, spoke on behalf of the NUJ National President and described the incident as a serious threat to press freedom and journalists’ safety.
Dokubo stressed that journalists are neutral professionals who must be allowed to perform their duties without intimidation or harassment. He explained that the media serves as a platform for public engagement, accountability, and national development, and should never be treated as an enemy by political actors.
While acknowledging the prompt response of the police following the distress call, Dokubo noted that recovering stolen equipment alone did not amount to justice. He insisted that all perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted to deter future attacks on journalists in the state.
The NUJ warned that the assault carries grave implications for press safety as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections. Dokubo urged journalists to remain extremely security-conscious, noting that a tense political environment increases risks for media practitioners.
Suspected political thugs invaded a popular hotel in the Orazi axis of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area around 9:15 pm while ARISE TV was interviewing a former Commissioner for Employment Generation and Empowerment, Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa. Eyewitnesses said the attackers, reportedly armed, forced open rooms, seized phones, threatened the interview guests and crew, and disrupted the live broadcast.
The NUJ described the incident as a heinous act and insisted that accountability is crucial to reassure journalists and safeguard press freedom in Rivers State.
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