In light of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called upon the Nigerian Federal Government to take firm actions to protect journalists across the nation. Emphasizing the urgent need for decisive measures, MRA urged the government to abide by a court order from February 16, 2024, issued by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which mandates proactive steps to safeguard media practitioners, investigate incidents of violence against them, and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
The court ruling, delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo in a lawsuit filed by MRA against the Attorney-General of the Federation, included eight declarations and three mandatory orders compelling the government to prevent and address attacks on journalists. Despite this, MRA reports that the government has shown a continued disregard for the court’s directives—a position that Ms. Obioma Okonkwo, Head of MRA’s Legal Department, described as “an affront to justice and the rule of law.”
In a statement from Lagos, Ms. Okonkwo decried the culture of impunity that has been fostered through the government’s inaction, underscoring the detrimental impact of unresolved cases of violence against journalists. “The culture of impunity being nurtured by the Federal Government through its failure to comply with and enforce the court’s judgment is deeply concerning,” she stated.
According to Ms. Okonkwo, the lack of accountability in cases of violence against journalists emboldens offenders, thereby undermining democratic principles and public trust in the rule of law. “Far too often, crimes committed against journalists remain unresolved, and the perpetrators go unpunished,” she added, stressing the importance of prioritizing journalist protection through tangible, enforceable legal frameworks.
MRA has called on the Federal Government to enhance legal protections for media professionals, specifically by adopting and implementing laws that shield journalists from violence and intimidation. Ms. Okonkwo further urged media organizations to play an active role in safeguarding their employees by fostering a supportive work environment that prioritizes their safety.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, Ms. Okonkwo paid tribute to journalists who courageously pursue the truth despite potential dangers, stating, “As we commemorate this day, we honor the courage and resilience of journalists who risk their lives and liberty to bring us stories that matter. We must renew our collective commitment to ending violence and other forms of attacks against journalists and ensuring that every journalist in Nigeria can work freely and safely.”