NGE, SERAP condemn Nigerian govt‘s growing suppression of press freedom

The Nigerian Guild of Editors and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, on Tuesday, raised concerns over the growing suppression of press freedom and free expression in Nigeria.

In a joint statement marking International Human Rights Day, the organisations condemned the use of “repressive laws” to stifle journalists, critics, and media organisations.

“Journalists and media houses are being targeted with repressive laws, harassment, and unlawful detention,” the statement read. “This attack on press freedom undermines democracy and accountability in Nigeria.”

The organisations cited a report by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, which revealed that 2024 recorded 110 verified attacks on journalists and media professionals, surpassing figures from 2023.

Kolawole Oluwadare, Deputy Director of SERAP, and Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, General Secretary of NGE, highlighted the escalation in the crackdown on journalists.

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“State actors, law enforcement agencies, and even private individuals are behind these abuses,” they noted. “From physical assaults to harassment, unlawful arrests, and imprisonment, Nigerian journalists are increasingly at risk.”

The statement cited several incidents, including the detention of ICIR staff over alleged cyberstalking, police harassment of News Central TV journalists in Lagos, and attacks on Channels Television journalists in Kano by unidentified assailants.

“These cases demonstrate the escalating dangers faced by journalists, bloggers, and human rights defenders in Nigeria,” the organisations said.

SERAP and NGE urged immediate government intervention, calling on President Bola Tinubu to release detained journalists and activists, repeal oppressive laws, and ensure the independence of regulatory bodies.

“President Tinubu, state governors, and the National Assembly must align Nigeria’s laws with international human rights standards,” the statement continued.

The organisations also called on the international community to hold Nigerian authorities accountable for press repression and to support efforts to protect free expression in the country.

“Freedom of expression and a free press are the foundations of any democracy,” the statement emphasised. “Nigeria must prioritise accountability, justice, and legal reforms to safeguard these rights.”

NGE President Eze Anaba reiterated the guild’s dedication to upholding the rule of law, expressing concern over the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi in Ekiti State. “These actions not only violate human rights but also set dangerous precedents for silencing dissent,” Anaba stated.

The organisations concluded by stressing the need for collective action to protect rights guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution and international treaties.

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