By Peter Omopo
29th August 2025
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has strongly condemned the alleged harassment and verbal assault of veteran journalist Ladi Bala by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, during coverage of the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment.
Bala, a transport correspondent with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and immediate past President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), was reportedly subjected to insults and forceful removal while conducting a live report at the derailment scene on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses said Dr. Opeifa interrupted her broadcast, calling her “stupid,” “foolish woman,” and “useless,” before directing security operatives to eject her. He allegedly threatened to escalate the matter to security agencies, the Presidency, and NTA management in a bid to jeopardise her career, while also vowing to bar her from future NRC events.
Although the NRC boss claimed his actions were for “security reasons,” the incident has sparked outrage within the journalism community.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ FCT Council described Opeifa’s conduct as “dehumanising, a gross violation of press freedom, and an affront to democracy and the rule of law.”
The union demanded an immediate and unreserved public apology from Dr. Opeifa and urged the NRC management to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence.
“The NUJ FCT Council condemns this act in its totality and will pursue all necessary channels to ensure accountability and safeguard the rights and welfare of journalists in the FCT and beyond,” the statement read.
The council also reaffirmed its zero tolerance for harassment of journalists, particularly women, stressing that it would not hesitate to defend members against intimidation and abuse.