The Ebonyi State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged attack, intimidation and harassment of the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, Comrade Samson Nwafor, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election held in Onueke, Ezza South Local Government Area of the state.
The association described the incident as disturbing, unfortunate and inimical to press freedom and democratic governance, warning against any attempt to intimidate journalists in the course of carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
In a statement signed by the State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Mrs. Nkechinyere Oginyi, the association condemned the alleged actions of some individuals said to be loyalists and aides of the Senator representing Ebonyi Central Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, Senator Kenneth Chukwuemeka Eze.
The incident reportedly occurred shortly after Senator Eze was declared winner of the APC senatorial primary election by the electoral committee chairman for the zone, Senator Anthony Agbo.
According to the statement, tension heightened when journalists approached the senator for comments following the announcement of the result, but he allegedly became agitated and accused some members of the media of misrepresenting him in previous reports.
NAWOJ further alleged that efforts by the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, to calm the situation and mediate were rebuffed, while some persons believed to be supporters of the senator allegedly moved to physically confront him.
The association expressed concern that despite Senator Eze’s position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, journalists in Ebonyi State had continued to experience strained professional relations with the lawmaker.
It noted that the latest development underscored the growing need for political actors and public office holders to respect the role of the media in sustaining democratic culture, accountability and transparency.
“Journalists remain critical stakeholders in the democratic process and should not be subjected to harassment, intimidation or threats while discharging their lawful duties,” the statement added.
NAWOJ, therefore, called on the Ebonyi State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the incident and ensure adequate protection for journalists operating in the state, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.
The association also urged politicians to uphold democratic principles, respect freedom of expression and maintain cordial working relationships with media practitioners in the overall interest of peace, good governance and public accountability.
