By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has condemned the alleged harassment, intimidation, and verbal assault of Comrade Ladi Bala, former President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Transport Reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Kayode Opeifa.
The incident reportedly took place on August 27, 2025, while Bala was covering the aftermath of the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment. Witnesses said the NRC boss disrupted her live broadcast and verbally abused her with derogatory comments.
According to eyewitness accounts, Opeifa allegedly told Bala: “You are stupid, your management is stupid, foolish woman… look at you, you are not even properly dressed, useless… who is watching NTA?” He was also accused of ordering security operatives to forcefully remove her from the scene and threatening to influence her dismissal from NTA.
When contacted, the NRC chief cited “security reasons” as justification for stopping her live coverage. However, he allegedly vowed to escalate the matter to security agencies, the Presidency, and NTA management, while barring her from future NRC events. Reports also indicate that he directed insulting remarks toward NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, who attempted to mediate in the situation.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ FCT Council described the incident as a gross violation of the rights of journalists, particularly women in the profession. The union said the conduct of the NRC boss amounted to a direct assault on press freedom and accountability.
“The NUJ FCT Council views this act as a blatant violation of the fundamental rights of journalists, especially female journalists, and a grave threat to press freedom in Nigeria,” the statement read in part.
The council further urged the Federal Government and relevant oversight institutions to intervene and hold Opeifa accountable, stressing that harassment of journalists undermines Nigeria’s democratic values. It also demanded that media professionals be guaranteed protection while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities of informing the public.
The NUJ noted that the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor has been the subject of public concern due to recurring security and operational challenges, making fair and unrestricted media coverage crucial. It warned that attempts to suppress reporting on such issues risk eroding public trust in governance and accountability.
The council reaffirmed its support for Bala and all journalists facing intimidation, declaring that press freedom remains non-negotiable. It called on journalists to remain steadfast in their duties, while urging authorities to create a safe environment for the media to operate without fear of harassment.
The NUJ concluded that freedom of the press is a constitutional right that must be respected by all office holders, irrespective of their position.