In recent years, Nigerian journalists have faced increasing attacks, arrests, threats, and censorship, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive protection laws. The role of the press as a watchdog of democracy is being severely undermined, and the consequences for freedom of speech and the public’s right to know are dire.
By Abdallah el-Kurebe
The landscape for Nigerian journalists has become increasingly hostile. Reporters Without Borders ranks Nigeria 120th out of 180 countries in its 2023 World Press Freedom Index, highlighting the numerous challenges faced by the press. Physical assaults, kidnappings, and even murders of journalists are disturbingly common, with many perpetrators acting with impunity. These threats not only endanger the lives of journalists but also foster a climate of fear that stifles independent reporting. As a result of these threats, many Nigerian journalists have had to relocate to other saner countries. Editors-in-Chief and Publishers of Daily Nigerian, and Wikkitimes, Jafar Jafar and Haruna Mohammed are examples of this.
Journalists in Nigeria frequently find themselves on the wrong side of the law for simply doing their jobs. Arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions without trial have become tools of intimidation. The recent arrest of reporters for covering protests or reporting on government corruption exemplifies the misuse of the legal system to silence dissent. Such actions violate both national and international laws that guarantee freedom of the press.
Beyond physical threats and legal harassment, censorship remains a significant issue. Government agencies have been known to shut down media outlets, revoke licenses, and impose hefty fines for unfavourable reporting. The fear of repercussions has led to a rise in self-censorship among journalists, who avoid controversial topics to protect themselves and their families. This erosion of journalistic integrity and independence compromises the public’s right to unbiased and accurate information.
After the hunger protest that commenced on August 1, 2024, the situation report released by the International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos revealed that the Police, and hoodlums, on Sunday, attacked 10 journalists and other media professionals during the first day of the nationwide protest organised by groups demanding an end to hardship-inducing economic policies.
The IPC’s journalists’ safety alert situation room revealed that several journalists and media professionals faced various forms of attacks, including physical assault, harassment, and denial of access to cover the protest. Some of the affected journalists were injured, arrested, or had their working tools destroyed.
The details of the incidents, as documented by IPC’s Safety of Journalists Alert Desk, said while Benard Akede of News Central Television was interrupted and harassed by police officers and LCC officials, who barred him and other journalists from interviewing anyone during a live broadcast in Lagos state, in Kano state, Ibrahim Isah, a TVC News Correspondent, was physically assaulted by hoodlums wielding weapons while covering the protest in Kano. He sustained injuries to his hand.
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Additionally, a vehicle belonging to Channels Television and carrying about eleven journalists, including Ibrahim Isah, was vandalized. The journalists onboard were traumatized by the unfortunate incident.
In the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Yakubu Mohammed of Premium Times was attacked and injured by police officers who hit him with the butt of their guns and batons, causing injuries to his head while covering the protest in Abuja. Police officers also destroyed cameras belonging to journalists.
Jide Oyekunle, a photojournalist with Daily Independent, was arrested, and police officers seized his mobile phone. Mary Adeboye of News Central Television was affected by tear gas thrown by police officers while covering the protest.
Hoodlums in Calabar, Cross River State, launched an attack on journalists, seriously injuring Nigerian Tribune reporter, Joseph Abasi-Abasi. The hoodlums targeted an 18-seater bus belonging to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) that was transporting food items to the Ernest Etim Press Centre in Calabar. Jonathan Ugbal of Cross River Watch was arrested by the police, beaten, and taken to an unknown destination in Calabar.
In Delta state, Matthew Ochei of Punch Newspaper, Monday Osayande of Guardian Newspaper, and a Pointer reporter named Lucy were attacked by anti-protest protesters who arrived at the location of the protest and chased away protesters amidst security agencies. The journalists were doing their job, taking pictures and conducting interviews when the allegedly pro-government protesters smashed their gadgets and attacked them.
These incidents happened even though the rights of journalists to cover and report protests and other societal activities as guaranteed by the 1999 Nigerian Constitution.
The Need for Protection Laws
Given these alarming trends, the implementation of robust protection laws for journalists is imperative. Such laws should ensure the safety of journalists, protect them from arbitrary arrests and legal harassment, and uphold their right to report freely. The protection laws should encompass the following:
- Legal Safeguards: Clear legal provisions that protect journalists from arbitrary detention and guarantee their right to a fair trial. This includes the establishment of special courts to handle cases involving journalists to ensure impartiality and speedy justice.
- Physical Protection: Mechanisms to provide physical protection for journalists at risk, including emergency hotlines, safe houses, and police protection. International best practices, such as those outlined by UNESCO, could serve as models for these mechanisms.
- Freedom from Censorship: Strong legal frameworks to prevent government interference in journalistic activities. This should include punitive measures for authorities who engage in censorship or retaliation against journalists.
- Support Systems: Establishment of support systems, including legal aid, counseling services, and financial assistance for journalists who face threats. Collaborations with international organizations can enhance these support systems and provide additional resources.
- Public Awareness and Education: Efforts to educate the public and government officials about the importance of press freedom and the need to protect journalists. Public awareness campaigns and training programs for law enforcement can foster a more supportive environment for journalists.
Finally, the current environment for Nigerian journalists is untenable and requires immediate legislative and institutional reforms. Protection laws are not just about safeguarding the rights of journalists; they are about preserving the very essence of democracy. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions and hold those in power accountable. By enacting and enforcing protection laws for journalists, Nigeria can demonstrate its commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring a free and vibrant press.
As threats to press freedom continue to rise, it is incumbent upon the Nigerian government, civil society, and international partners to work together to create a safer and more conducive environment for journalism. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on it.
el-Kurebe is Editor-in-Chief of ASHENEWS
