In a pressing statement, a coalition comprising 85 journalists, civil society groups, and media practitioners has called on the Nigerian President to take decisive measures against the growing attacks on press freedom, as highlighted by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID).
The coalition’s statement, attributed to Sylvester Agih from Citizens’ Gavel and Busola Ajibola from CJID, reveals troubling statistics from CJID’s Press Attack Tracker. Between May 2023 and June 2024, 51 incidents of press violations were recorded, with an alarming 90 additional cases reported from July to October 2024.
The group is urging the President to enact protective laws for press freedom, thoroughly investigate instances of harassment, and ensure those responsible for these violations are held accountable. They also stress the importance of collaboration with security agencies to safeguard journalists, advocating that any complaints against them be submitted to the Nigerian Media Complaints Commission (NMCC) before any punitive actions are considered.
This call to action coincides with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, emphasizing the critical role of a free press in a democratic society like Nigeria’s.
The statement notes, “The CJID’s Press Attack Tracker has documented not less than 90 confirmed cases of press attacks between July 1 and October 22, 2024. The ongoing trend of violations, largely attributed to state actors, poses a serious threat to the safety of journalists and undermines the foundations of free speech and accountability.”
The coalition’s demands focus on a range of key actions. They advocate for the implementation of laws that bolster protections for press freedom, allowing journalists to fulfill their roles without the fear of intimidation. Additionally, they emphasize the need for comprehensive investigations into recent cases of journalist detentions and attacks, ensuring accountability for those involved.
The coalition urges the President to engage with various government bodies to uphold press freedom and protect journalists’ rights as stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution. They highlight the necessity for effective cooperation with security forces, including the Nigerian Police, Army, and State Security Service, to clarify their responsibilities in protecting press freedom and enforcing relevant laws.
Moreover, the coalition calls for constructive dialogues with media professionals and other stakeholders to foster a safer environment for journalism. They also recommend that any complaints against journalists should initially be addressed to the NMCC, ensuring a prima facie case is established before any further action is taken.
“As we mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, we are reminded of the vital role of the press in Nigeria’s democracy. We implore the President to take meaningful steps to ensure press freedom and allow journalists to operate without fear,” the statement concludes.
CJID, Citizens Gavel, and their partners hope the President will seize this moment to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to protecting press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists. The coalition remains steadfast in advocating for the rights of journalists and promoting accountability and sustainable development.
They also invite all stakeholders, including government officials and civil society organizations, to join this crucial effort to safeguard press freedom in Nigeria.
