NUJ Chairman Pledges Sustained Partnership With Akwa Ibom Police, Seeks Protection For Journalists

Saturday April 25, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

By Dominic UMOH

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has reaffirmed the union’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the Nigeria Police in the state, with a focus on intelligence sharing and strengthening public safety.

Comrade John gave the assurance in his goodwill message on Friday during a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command in Uyo.

He commended the police for convening the meeting and emphasised the critical role of the media in supporting security agencies through responsible journalism and information sharing.

“The media will continue to partner with the Police to deepen security in Akwa Ibom State,” he said, adding that the NUJ remains committed to fostering a safer and more informed society.

The NUJ Chairman, however, called on the police to prioritise the safety of journalists, particularly as the state approaches an election cycle. He urged the Command to remain vigilant against attempts to intimidate or silence media practitioners through frivolous petitions.

“We appeal to the Police to ensure that journalists are protected in the line of duty and that the media is not undermined by baseless complaints aimed at suppressing press freedom,” he stated.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the stakeholders’ engagement forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen intelligence-led policing and improve collaboration between the police and the public.

He reiterated that security is a shared responsibility, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.

“Effective policing cannot be achieved without the cooperation of the public. Intelligence-led policing remains the most potent tool in crime prevention and control,” the Commissioner said, assuring that the Command remains responsive to distress calls.

The engagement brought together key stakeholders, including security agencies, community leaders, and media representatives, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance trust and cooperation in maintaining law and order across the state.