NUJ Akwa Ibom Chair refutes claims of media suppression as alleged by IPI.

By Divine Sam

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has dismissed allegations of media repression in the state, describing a report by Mr. Mojeed Misikilu of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria as “false, unfounded, and misrepresentative of the facts on ground.”

Speaking in Uyo on Wednesday during a media symposium marking this year’s Press Week of the Akwa Ibom State Council of the NUJ, Comrade John said he thoroughly reviewed the concerns raised by IPI but found no evidence to support the claim of repression.

“That claim is unfounded and baseless,” he said. “Media repression means harassing or arresting journalists for doing their constitutional work. I am not aware of any such case in Akwa Ibom under my watch.”

He questioned the criteria used by IPI to draw its conclusions, describing the organisation’s methods as misleading and lacking verifiable data. According to him, the NUJ in the state maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of intimidation or censorship of journalists.

“As NUJ Chairman, I would never look away if any journalist was harassed or censored,” he stressed. “If there were attacks or intimidation, I would be the first to raise the alarm.”

Comrade John urged IPI to review its stance and engage directly with relevant stakeholders in Akwa Ibom before issuing public statements. He warned the organisation against releasing reports that may appear sensational or detached from actual realities.

Reaffirming the union’s commitment to defending press freedom, he noted that the NUJ under his leadership remains dedicated to safeguarding the rights and professional privileges of journalists across the state.

“The NUJ in Akwa Ibom is committed to protecting and promoting the rights, privileges, and interests of journalists,” he stated. “We will continue to uphold truth, objectivity, and fairness in our practice and in defending our members.”

Comrade John reiterated that the media landscape in Akwa Ibom remains open and conducive, cautioning against narratives that may distort the image of the state or undermine journalists’ work.