The Nigeria Union of Journalists says the forthcoming retrial of the Nagarta Radio journalist must respect her constitutional rights, following her reported arrest, detention and initial four-year prison sentence.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for justice, due process and the protection of press freedom in the case of Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old journalist with Nagarta Radio in Kaduna State, who was reportedly sentenced to four years’ imprisonment or a ₦1.75 million fine over a Facebook post criticising the treatment of her parents by the police.

In a press statement dated October 22, 2026, the union expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding her arrest, the reported detention of her parents and the legal proceedings that followed, describing the case as one that raises important questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty and the exercise of public authority.

According to the account contained in the statement, the incident began with a dispute involving ₦100 change from a charcoal sale between Farida’s mother and a neighbour. Her mother was reportedly arrested, while her father was also detained after visiting the police station to secure her bail.

Farida subsequently presented herself at the station and was accused of defaming the police in a Facebook post concerning the reported treatment of her parents. The NUJ said she reportedly deleted the post and apologised before being taken before a court in Kawo, where the initial sentence was handed down.

The intervention of lawyers reportedly prevented her immediate transfer to a correctional centre. She was subsequently granted bail, while a retrial has been scheduled for November 3, 2026.

Welcoming Farida’s release on bail, the NUJ stressed that the development did not resolve the broader concerns surrounding the case. It said it would continue monitoring proceedings and advocating for a transparent judicial process.

The union urged the relevant judicial authorities in Kaduna State to ensure that the proceedings receive appropriate scrutiny, particularly regarding the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the initial proceedings and the legal basis for the reported sentence.

It also called for the retrial to be conducted impartially, with full respect for Farida’s right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.

The NUJ further called on the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State to ensure an impartial investigation into the circumstances of the journalist’s arrest and the reported detention of her parents. Any allegations concerning police misconduct, it said, should be examined professionally and in accordance with the law.

The union cited Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, which guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and receive and impart information and ideas.

It also referenced Sections 35 and 36, which provide safeguards for personal liberty and fair hearing.

The NUJ acknowledged that journalists are not above the law and that freedom of expression does not provide immunity from lawful consequences. However, it maintained that defamation allegations must be handled in accordance with applicable laws and constitutional safeguards.

The union warned that criminal proceedings involving journalists following criticism of public officials require careful scrutiny to ensure that legitimate accountability is not undermined and that legal processes do not become instruments of intimidation.

It also urged the police and other public institutions to remain open to legitimate scrutiny, stressing that allegations of misconduct should be addressed through lawful procedures rather than actions that could discourage citizens from reporting wrongdoing or expressing genuine grievances.

The NUJ emphasised that press freedom is not solely a professional concern for journalists but a fundamental democratic issue affecting every Nigerian. It said citizens must be able to question public institutions, raise concerns and seek redress without fear of unlawful punishment.

The union acknowledged the intervention of the lawyers who helped secure Farida’s release on bail, noting that their actions highlighted the importance of an independent legal profession and an active civil society in protecting fundamental rights.

However, it cautioned that access to justice should not depend on public attention, last-minute legal intervention or an individual’s ability to afford expensive legal representation.

According to the NUJ, every Nigerian deserves the protection of the law and a fair opportunity to defend their rights.

The union called on governments, law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen their commitment to protecting journalists and upholding citizens’ fundamental rights.

It reaffirmed its solidarity with Farida and pledged to follow developments in her case while providing appropriate support within its capacity and mandate.

As the November 3 retrial approaches, the NUJ said the authorities must ensure that the case is handled with fairness, restraint, accountability and respect for due process.

The union maintained that protecting journalists is inseparable from protecting the public’s right to know, warning that intimidation over legitimate expression can weaken democratic accountability and restrict the space available for citizens to question authority.

The NUJ demands a fair retrial for Kaduna journalist Farida Isiak after her reported four-year sentence over a Facebook post, raising concerns about due process and press freedom.