The Farida Isiak Case has prompted the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to demand an impartial investigation after reports that the 23-year-old Nagarta Radio journalist in Kaduna State was sentenced to four years in prison over a Facebook post.
Isiak was reportedly convicted of defamation after criticising the police over the alleged treatment of her parents. She later secured bail following the intervention of lawyers.
The NUJ has called for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her arrest and sentence. It has also urged judicial authorities to ensure a fair hearing at her retrial, scheduled for November 3, 2026.
In a statement on Thursday, NUJ National President Alhassan Abdullahi said Isiak’s release did not resolve the concerns surrounding the case.
He noted that the incident raised serious questions about freedom of expression, personal liberty and the treatment of journalists who criticise public institutions.
Farida Isiak Case: NUJ Questions Circumstances of Sentence
According to the union, the incident reportedly started with a dispute over ₦100 change from a charcoal sale involving Isiak’s mother and a neighbour.
Her mother was allegedly arrested following the dispute. Her father was also reportedly detained after visiting the police station to secure her release.
The NUJ said Isiak later went to the police station and faced accusations of defaming the police in a Facebook post about her parents’ reported treatment.
She reportedly deleted the post and apologised before the court proceedings that resulted in her sentence.
The union called for a careful review of the case to establish whether the proceedings followed the law and respected the rights of everyone involved.
It also urged the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police to investigate the reported detention of Isiak’s parents and examine the conduct of the officers involved.
NUJ Seeks Fair Hearing at November 3 Retrial
The union called on judicial authorities to examine the initial proceedings, including the court’s jurisdiction, the fairness of the process and the legal basis for the reported sentence.
It stressed that the November 3 retrial should give Isiak a fair opportunity to present her defence without intimidation or prejudice.
The NUJ acknowledged that journalists must obey the law. However, it maintained that defamation allegations must follow due process and respect constitutional safeguards.
The union warned that criminal proceedings against journalists following criticism of public officials could discourage citizens from reporting alleged misconduct.
It urged authorities to ensure that legal processes do not become instruments of intimidation or weaken public accountability.
NUJ Cites Constitutional Rights and Press Freedom
The Farida Isiak Case has also raised concerns about the protection of fundamental rights in Nigeria.
The NUJ cited Sections 35, 36 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. These provisions address personal liberty, fair hearing and freedom of expression.
The union stressed that these protections apply to every Nigerian, not only journalists. Citizens should be able to question public institutions, express their views and seek redress over alleged injustice.
It also raised concerns about access to justice. The union warned that people should not have to depend on public attention or last-minute legal intervention to protect their rights.
The NUJ acknowledged the lawyers who helped secure Isiak’s release on bail. It nevertheless argued that access to justice should not depend on an individual’s ability to afford legal representation.
The union pledged to monitor the case and provide support within its capacity. It said the outcome of the retrial would be important to public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.