Why it matters:
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is joining a growing chorus of international voices condemning the deaths of journalists in Gaza, calling for accountability and reaffirming the role of press freedom in conflict zones. Their statement adds pressure on global institutions to investigate alleged violations of international law.
The big picture:
Since the escalation of violence in Gaza, press advocacy groups have reported dozens of journalists killed while covering the conflict. The NUJ’s condemnation reflects broader concerns about the safety of media workers and the erosion of journalistic freedoms in war-torn regions.
Key points:
- NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya Abdul condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza, calling it “a total violation of international law.”
- He stated that over 274 journalists have reportedly been killed in Gaza due to Israeli military actions.
- The NUJ emphasized that journalism is not a crime and vowed that such violence will not silence the press.
- The union called on the United Nations and other international bodies to investigate Israel’s actions in Gaza.
- Abdul stressed that peace can only be achieved through dialogue and justice, not violence.
What they’re saying:
“We condemn in totality the killing of journalists in Gaza by Israel. Journalism is not a crime,” Abdul told Iran Press in Abuja. “Killing journalists will not stop the newsmen from doing their job, and will never stop journalism from progressing.” “Israel’s actions go against international law and treaties. We denounce such acts in totality.”
Go deeper:
Whether international organizations respond to NUJ’s call for investigations, and how this shapes future protections for journalists in conflict zones. The growing death toll among media workers may prompt renewed scrutiny of wartime conduct and press safety protocols.
Hossein Amiri - ahmad shirzadian
