The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded a fair and transparent retrial for Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, following her initial sentencing to four years’ imprisonment or a ₦1.75 million fine over a Facebook post allegedly defaming the police.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union expressed concern over the implications of the case for freedom of expression, personal liberty, due process and press freedom in Nigeria.
According to reports, the incident began with a dispute over ₦100 change from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, while her father was also detained after going to the police station to secure her bail.
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Isiak subsequently presented herself at the police station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents.
Although she reportedly deleted the post and apologised, she was taken before a court in Kawo and initially sentenced to four years in prison or a fine of ₦1.75 million.
Following the intervention of lawyers, the initial conviction was set aside, and she was allowed to enter a fresh plea. She subsequently pleaded not guilty and was granted bail, with the retrial scheduled for November 3, 2026.
The NUJ welcomed her release but stressed that the development did not resolve the broader concerns raised by the case.
The union cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provide protections relating to personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression.
It acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not confer immunity from lawful consequences. However, it maintained that allegations of defamation must be handled in accordance with established legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.
The NUJ called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Isiak’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents.
It also urged judicial authorities to ensure that the retrial is conducted fairly, with appropriate scrutiny of the initial proceedings, the court’s jurisdiction and the legal basis for the original sentence.
The union further called on the Nigeria Police Force and other public institutions to respect citizens’ fundamental rights and ensure that allegations of misconduct are addressed through lawful procedures.
It warned that criminal proceedings against journalists following criticism of public officials must be carefully examined to prevent the misuse of legal processes and avoid discouraging legitimate public scrutiny.
The NUJ also urged governments, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen measures protecting journalists and uphold the rights of all Nigerians to express opinions and seek redress for alleged injustices.
While commending the lawyers who helped secure Isiak’s release, the union said access to justice should not depend on public attention, emergency legal intervention or the ability to afford expensive representation.
It reaffirmed its solidarity with the journalist and pledged to monitor developments in the case while providing support within its capacity and mandate.
The union stressed that protecting journalists was inseparable from safeguarding the public’s right to information, warning that intimidation over public-interest reporting could undermine democratic accountability.
“Freedom of expression is not a privilege granted by those in authority. It is a fundamental right that must be respected and protected under the law,” the NUJ said.