POLICE DEFEND HANDLING OF KADUNA JOURNALIST’S ALLEGED DEFAMATION CASE

Police have defended their handling of an alleged defamation case involving a Kaduna journalist, amid concerns about her treatment and the circumstances surrounding the prosecution.

The controversy centres on Farida Isiak, a 23-year-old reporter with Nagarta Radio, whose Facebook post reportedly criticised police handling of a dispute involving her parents.

According to published accounts, the original disagreement concerned ₦100 change from a charcoal sale involving her mother and a neighbour. The matter escalated into police involvement and, subsequently, a defamation allegation against the journalist.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists expressed concern over reports that Isiak was detained and taken before a court after publishing the post. The union called for a fair hearing and protection of press freedom.

Amnesty International also criticised the handling of the case, describing it as an attempt to intimidate a journalist over criticism of police conduct. Those criticisms represent the organisation’s assessment of the incident.

In a subsequent development reported on October 22, a court set aside Isiak’s conviction and granted her bail.

The case has brought attention to the distinction between investigating a complaint and responding to public criticism. It also raises questions about access to legal representation and the treatment of journalists who report alleged misconduct.

A full assessment of the matter depends on the court records, the evidence behind the defamation allegation and the competing accounts of what happened.