The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, has strongly condemned the back-to-back armed attacks on Rhythm 94.7 FM, a privately owned radio station located in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
According to a statement issued on Monday, May 19, 2025, the station was invaded on two consecutive days—Saturday, May 17, at approximately 2:10 p.m., and Sunday, May 18, at about 4:40 p.m.—by unidentified gunmen. The assailants reportedly stormed the premises and carted away various valuables, including mobile phones, audio recorders, and other equipment belonging to staff members on duty.
Describing the attacks as “an assault on the entire media family in Bayelsa State and on press freedom,” the NUJ urged law enforcement agencies to act with urgency. The statement, signed by NUJ State Secretary Comrade Stanley Imgbi on behalf of Chairman Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, called on the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies to launch a full-scale investigation, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure they are brought to justice.
Given the station’s relatively isolated location, the NUJ further recommended the deployment of a permanent police patrol unit to the area to deter future security breaches, citing the need to protect journalists and media infrastructure.
While expressing gratitude that no lives were lost during the attacks, the union emphasized that the safety and freedom of journalists must be treated as a priority in any democratic society.
The Bayelsa NUJ reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom and promoting the welfare and security of journalists across the state.