By
Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, has called on security agencies to immediately arrest and investigate Kelly Okungbowa, popularly known as Ebo Stone, over his alleged assault on a female journalist in Benin City on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, and Secretary, Comrade Andy Egbon, the Union condemned in strong terms the attack on Juliet Enabulele Asein, a reporter with the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), who was reportedly manhandled while covering a public event.
The NUJ described the incident as a blatant attack on press freedom, stressing that no form of violence against journalists performing their constitutional duties will be tolerated.
According to the statement, such acts threaten the safety of journalists, undermine democratic values, and erode the public’s right to information.
The statement read, "The leadership of the Union considers this act a direct assault on press freedom, the safety of journalists, and the right of media professionals to carry out their lawful duties without fear, intimidation, or violence,”
The NUJ urged the Nigeria Police and other relevant security agencies to take swift action by apprehending Okungbowa and conducting a full-scale investigation into the incident.
The Union further warned that attacks on journalists in the line of duty will no longer be condoned, urging members of the public, especially public figures to show restraint and demonstrate respect for the constitutional role of the media in strengthening democracy and promoting accountability.
The NUJ reiterated its commitment to defending its members and ensuring that journalists in Edo State can work without harassment, threats, or violence.
