The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, has strongly condemned the recent armed attacks on a private radio station, Rhythm 94.7 FM, located in Yenagoa, the state capital.
According to the NUJ, the station was attacked on two consecutive days—Saturday, May 17, 2025, at about 2:10 p.m., and Sunday, May 18, 2025, at approximately 4:40 p.m.—by unidentified gunmen who stormed the premises and carted away valuables. Items stolen during the incidents include mobile phones, audio recorders, and other operational gadgets belonging to staff members on duty.
In a press statement issued on behalf of the NUJ State Council Chairman, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, the Council Secretary, Comrade Stanley Imgbi, described the incidents as “a rape on the entire media family in Bayelsa State and an attack on press freedom.”
The union called on the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies to immediately swing into action, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.
Furthermore, the NUJ urged that a police patrol van be stationed around the premises of Rhythm FM, given its isolated location, similar to other strategic areas within Yenagoa that benefit from regular police presence.
The statement, however, expressed gratitude to God that no lives were lost during the attacks.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and protecting the welfare of journalists across the state.