The Nigerian Union of Journalists has demanded immediate release of the detained editor of First News Newspaper, Mr Segun Olatunji.
The NUJ said in a statement by its Assistant National Secretary, Akorede Rauf Opeyemi, on Monday that acts of impunity against journalists should be condemned as their work is in the public interest.
The NUJ Assistant Scribe said that the detention of Olatunji remains a sad reminder of the hazards being faced by journalists in the performance of their lawful duties.
He stressed that the safety and protection of journalists is critical to democratic development.
The full statement, “The disappearance of Segun Olatunji, the editor of First News newspapers is another sad reminder of the danger being faced on a daily basis by Journalists in the line of duty.
“Eye witness reports had it that Olatunji was taken away last Friday in his Lagos home in the presence of his family by ten fully armed men, two of whom were dressed in military uniform.
“Although it is not clear which agency of Government was responsible for the arrest of the Journalist, but we believe that freedom of the press and of opinion remain defining elements of the rule of law and democracy.
“For this reason, it is important for the Nigerian government to work to protect freedom of the press and freedom of movement for media professionals.
“Safety and Security of Journalists is very important.
“Actions like this are clearly unacceptable and are attempts to intimidate journalists and force them into self-censorship.
“The professional work by Journalists is clearly in the public interest, and acts of impunity against them should not be condoned.
“Olatunji should be released immediately and unconditionally in the interest of democracy, good governance and the rule of law.”