NUJ CONDEMNS NRC MD’S HARASSMENT OF JOURNALIST, DEMANDS PUBLIC APOLOGY

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has strongly condemned the harassment, intimidation, and verbal abuse allegedly directed at veteran journalist Comrade Ladi Bala by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Kayode Opeifa.

The incident occurred on August 27, 2025, while Bala, the immediate past President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists and Transport Reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), was covering the aftermath of a train derailment on the Abuja-Kaduna rail line. Opeifa allegedly used derogatory language, including “you are stupid,” “your management is stupid,” “foolish woman,” and “useless,” among other offensive remarks.

The NUJ said Bala was performing her lawful duties when she was verbally assaulted by the NRC MD, who disrupted her live broadcast and ordered security operatives to forcibly remove her. Witnesses confirmed that the MD used demeaning language and launched personal attacks on her appearance and professionalism.

When approached by NUJ officials for clarification, Opeifa cited “security reasons” for preventing the live report but continued to issue threats, stating he would report Bala to security agencies, the Presidency, and NTA management, with the aim of getting her dismissed from her job.

The NUJ described Opeifa’s actions as a blatant violation of press freedom and the fundamental rights of journalists. “This conduct is not only dehumanising but also a direct affront to democracy and the rule of law. It undermines the vital role of journalism in promoting transparency, accountability, and public enlightenment,” the statement read.

The council demanded an immediate and unreserved public apology from Opeifa and urged the Nigerian Railway Corporation to take decisive steps to ensure that such incidents do not reoccur. “The union has zero tolerance for the harassment and intimidation of journalists in the FCT,” the statement added. “We will pursue all necessary channels to ensure accountability and to protect the rights and welfare of journalists both within and beyond the FCT.”