Nigeria: Katsina Radio Reporter Fauziya Lawal-Dawai Fired Amidst Sexual Harassment Claims

The Coalition For Women In Journalism urges for a detailed and unbiased investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable

Location: Nigeria, Katsina
Date: November 16, 2023

Fauziya Lawal-Dawai, a contract worker for over ten years at Katsina State Radio. Lawal-Dawai was allegedly fired by the radio station's general manager for missing a scheduled meeting. NAWOJ has also alleged that Dawai faced sexual assault while working at the radio station. The Coalition For Women In Journalism stands firmly in solidarity with Fauziya Lawal-Dawai, offering unwavering support during this challenging time. We strongly denounce her unjust termination and the reported incidents of sexual harassment she has endured. We call upon the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter, ensuring that those responsible for these actions are held accountable for their misconduct.

Despite her decade-long service as a casual staff member, Dawai was reportedly fired by the radio station's General Manager for missing a scheduled meeting. Mallama Hannatu Muhammed, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), disputes this claim and asserts that Dawai was actually fulfilling her duties in the newsroom, translating a bulletin for a noon broadcast. Furthermore, NAWOJ has also alleged that Dawai faced sexual assault while working at the radio station, adding another troubling dimension to the situation.

Muhammed further emphasized that Dawai had followed the necessary protocols by informing her superiors, which should have exempted her from attending the meeting. Despite her compliance, it seems that her efforts were disregarded. NAWOJ strongly opposes gender bias in the workplace and believes that Dawai's dismissal over a single incident is unacceptable, especially considering her consistent dedication and contribution to the reputation and professionalism of Katsina State Radio.

In response to the matter, Governor Umaru Dikko Radda has established a committee to investigate the situation, according to reports. The committee is led by Mohammed-Rufai Coomassie, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Justice. Other members of the committee include the permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Information and the Department of Establishment.

A journalist expressed deep disappointment, stating that it is disheartening to see Fauziya Lawal Mamman Dawai, who has served for a decade, still being treated as a casual staff member. They believe that simply reinstating her in the same capacity would not address the injustice she has faced and that she deserves a permanent appointment. Another journalist expressed confidence in Governor Umaru Dikko Radda, believing that he will take the necessary steps to rectify the situation and that appropriate action will be taken.

Every day, women journalists in Nigeria face the distressing reality of sexual harassment and even worse treatment within newsrooms. Unfortunately, many are forced to endure these experiences silently, fearing the consequences of speaking out or risking their jobs.

CFWIJ has been actively observing and analyzing Nigeria's media and newsroom environment. We have documented numerous instances of severe gender-based violations targeting women journalists in the country. It is deeply troubling to witness such acts of aggression towards these dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in keeping the public informed and upholding the values of press freedom.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism stands in unwavering solidarity with Fauziya Lawal-Dawai. We vehemently condemn her termination and the reported incidents of sexual assault she has endured at the radio station. We urgently call for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the termination of her service. It is imperative that the authorities thoroughly examine this case and take necessary measures to ensure the safety and protection of women journalists as they carry out their professional duties.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

If you have been harassed or abused in any way, and please report the incident by using the following form.