December 10, (THEWILL) – The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have raised concerns over the worsening state of press freedom and human rights in Nigeria, accusing the authorities of using repressive laws to stifle dissent.
In a joint statement signed by the Deputy Director of SERAP, Kolawole Oluwadare, and the General Secretary of the NGE, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the organizations called for urgent reforms to uphold press freedom and freedom of expression.
The statement, released to mark the International Human Rights Day, criticized the application of laws such as the Cybercrimes Act and certain codes of the National Broadcasting Commission to harass journalists, critics, and media outlets.
Citing data from the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development the groups revealed that 2024 has recorded 110 verified attacks on journalists and media workers, surpassing the figures for 2023.
The report highlighted abuses by state actors, law enforcement agents, and private individuals, including physical assaults, unlawful arrests, and harassment. Specific incidents referenced include, “The detention of ICIR staff over alleged cyberstalking.
“Harassment of News Central TV journalists by police in Lagos. Arrest of photojournalists covering protests in Abuja.
“Physical attacks on Channels Television reporters in Kano by unknown assailants.
“These cases illustrate the increasing risks faced by journalists, bloggers, and human rights defenders,” the statement said.
The groups demanded the immediate release of detained journalists and activists and called on the Federal Government to amend oppressive laws, including the Cybercrimes Act.
They also urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and the National Assembly to align national laws with international human rights standards, investigate violations, and ensure accountability for abuses.
SERAP and the NGE further appealed to the international community to hold Nigerian authorities accountable for human rights violations and support efforts to promote freedom of expression and media independence.
“Freedom of expression and press freedom are the bedrock of democracy,” the statement emphasised
Meanwhile, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, accused Nigeria of failing to protect human rights.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi decried the high rate of rights abuses, including extrajudicial arrests, killings by security agencies, and abuse of public office.
“The gross disrespect for the human rights of citizens, abuse of power, extrajudicial arrests, and punishments for perceived wrongs are saddening realities we face daily,” he said.
He cited a National Human Rights Commission report indicating over two million complaints of human rights abuses annually.
“Our nation has sadly remained notorious for human rights abuse. We were ranked 21st globally for the worst human rights and rule of law violations in 2022 and 15th on the Fragile State Index for 2023,” Obi lamented.
He called for urgent reforms, stating, “Respect for the rule of law and human rights is the biggest intangible asset any nation can have. It fosters peace and attracts foreign investment.”
Obi urged leaders and citizens to prioritize human rights, tear down ethnic and religious barriers, and build an inclusive society.
“By commemorating today’s event, I hope we, the leaders, will begin to champion the respect of the rights of our people,” Obi added.
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