The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Stands Firm in Protecting Journalists
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has made it clear that it will take decisive action against any efforts to limit civic space, as well as the rising incidents of violence, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests targeting journalists in Nigeria.
At a media event and during the unveiling of the 30th anniversary logo of the NHRC on Monday in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, emphasized that attacks on journalists are not just threats to individual freedoms but also direct challenges to democracy and the public’s right to information.
Ojukwu stated that the NHRC is committed to protecting the rights of media professionals and ensuring that those who violate these rights are held accountable. He further outlined the Commission’s plan to monitor and document violations against journalists, while strengthening partnerships with media organizations, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), civil society groups, and international partners.
“Together, we aim to enhance safety awareness and establish rapid response mechanisms for the protection of journalists,” he said.
Calls for Action from the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ)
The National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, was represented by the chairman of the FCT Council, Grace Ike, during the event. In her speech, Ike urged the NHRC to move beyond words and take concrete steps to address the growing number of harassment, intimidation, and attacks on journalists across the country.
Ike stressed that press freedom is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and highlighted its importance in advancing democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. She reiterated the NUJ’s zero-tolerance policy toward any form of harassment or attacks on media practitioners, whether online or offline.
She noted that such acts not only threaten individual freedom but also undermine the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy. The NUJ called on the NHRC to use its constitutional authority to effectively tackle violations against journalists, emphasizing that issuing statements of condemnation is no longer enough.
“It is time to act. It is no longer business as usual. The Commission must exercise its investigative powers with vigour, ensuring that all abuses against journalists are thoroughly examined and perpetrators are brought to book,” she said.
The Importance of Press Freedom
Press freedom plays a crucial role in maintaining an informed citizenry and holding power to account. As the situation for journalists in Nigeria continues to deteriorate, the need for strong institutional support becomes even more critical.
The NHRC and the NUJ have both recognized that without effective protection and accountability mechanisms, the space for free expression will continue to shrink. This is not just a matter of legal compliance but a moral imperative to safeguard the democratic process.
Key Points for Action
- Monitoring and Documentation: The NHRC must continue to track and record incidents of violence and intimidation against journalists.
- Collaboration: Strengthening ties with media organizations, civil society, and international bodies is essential for a coordinated response.
- Rapid Response Mechanisms: Establishing systems to quickly address threats and provide support to affected journalists.
- Investigative Powers: The NHRC should use its full authority to investigate abuses and ensure justice for victims.
- Public Awareness: Increasing awareness about the dangers faced by journalists and promoting a culture of respect for press freedom.
Conclusion
As Nigeria grapples with increasing threats to press freedom, the role of institutions like the NHRC and the NUJ becomes more vital than ever. Their combined efforts can help create a safer environment for journalists, ensuring that the public continues to have access to the information necessary for a functioning democracy.