20th February 2024 – The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) stands in full support of the recent press statement issued by Media Rights Agenda (MRA) regarding the groundbreaking judgement handed down by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The court’s decision, which orders the Federal Government to investigate all attacks against journalists, prosecute and punish perpetrators of such attacks, and prevent further assaults on journalists, marks a significant milestone in the defence of press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights.
The court’s ruling, delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo, highlights the critical importance of safeguarding journalists and media practitioners in the exercise of their duties. It acknowledges the inherent risks faced by journalists and the importance for the government to fulfil its obligations in ensuring their safety and security.
CWPPF echoes MRA’s call for immediate action to implement the court’s directives. It is important that the Federal Government takes concrete steps to prevent attacks on journalists, investigate previous incidents thoroughly, prosecute those responsible, and provide effective remedies for victims.
Furthermore, awareness-raising projects and capacity-building efforts must be undertaken to educate stakeholders, including policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and media practitioners, on the laws and standards governing the safety of journalists.
The Coalition urges the Federal Government to demonstrate its commitment to upholding press freedom and protecting the rights of journalists by swiftly implementing the court’s orders. Failure to do so would not only constitute a breach of statutory duty but also undermine the fundamental principles of democracy and accountability.
As advocates for press freedom, CWPPF reaffirms its support for MRA’s efforts in promoting media freedom and defending the rights of journalists. Together, we will continue to champion transparency, accountability, and the vital role of a free press in democratic societies.
Signed
Busola Ajibola,
Deputy Director, Journalism, CJID
For:
CWPPF Members:
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Premium Times
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The Cable
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Daily Trust Newspaper
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International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR)
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Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ)
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Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)
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African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL)
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Civic Media Lab
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Civil Society Network Against Corruption (CSNAC)
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International Press Centre (IPC)
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International Press Institute (IPI)
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Media Rights Agenda (MRA)
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Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)
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Paradigm Initiative
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Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP)
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HEDA Resources Centre
