The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the attack on journalists and peaceful protesters at the Lagos State House of Assembly in Alausa, Ikeja.
The NUJ in a statement, said security operatives violently dispersed protesters and harassed journalists covering a demonstration on 28th January 2026.
The protest followed the demolition of homes and forced evictions in parts of Lagos State.
According to the NUJ, journalists from several media organisations were present “to witness and report the unfolding events” when police allegedly used tear gas on protesters.
The union described the incident as “the targeted harassment of journalists by security operatives.”
“What eventually formed the fulcrum of the reports from the media was the attack perpetrated by the police on both the fourth estate of the realm and citizens who had gathered peacefully,” the statement said.
The NUJ said video evidence showed that the protesters were non-violent and accused security agencies of violating citizens’ rights.
It cited Section 40 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association.
“In a thriving democracy, protest is not a favor granted by the state; it is a fundamental right,” the union said, warning that silencing displaced citizens undermines democratic values.
The journalists’ union called the incident “an assault on democratic values” and urged authorities to respect press freedom and citizens’ rights.
The NUJ leadership, led by National President Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, called on the Lagos State Government and security agencies to ensure journalists can work safely and without intimidation during public demonstrations.
