NHRC seeks zero tolerance for attacks on journalists

The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has called for zero tolerance for all forms of violations targeted at journalists and media houses in the country.

While emphasising that a free press is the lifeblood of any thriving democracy, Ojukwu made the call as Nigeria joined the global community to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, marked annually on May 3. He reaffirmed that a free, independent, and pluralistic media is indispensable not only to the protection of human rights but also to the survival and deepening of democracy.

According to a statement by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the NHRC, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Ojukwu stressed that there is a direct and undeniable correlation between press freedom and democratic governance, noting that where the media thrives freely, accountability, transparency, and citizen participation are strengthened.

He maintained that press freedom is not a privilege but a fundamental right, firmly guaranteed under Section 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as under regional and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a state party.

According to him, every threat to a journalist constitutes a direct attack on democracy and the public’s right to know. He expressed deep concern over persistent reports of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, and online harassment of journalists across the country.

Ojukwu also decried incidents involving the killing of media professionals in the line of duty, noting that such grave violations not only infringe on the rights of victims but also create a climate of fear and self-censorship that undermines democratic discourse and accountability.

The NHRC boss further disclosed that the Commission has commenced systematic tracking and documentation of cases involving violations of press freedom across Nigeria, noting that the findings will be made public in due course as part of efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and evidence-based advocacy in the protection of journalists’ rights.

He urged all levels of government, security agencies, and non-state actors to refrain from actions that impede the lawful operations of the media. He also called on law enforcement agencies to ensure prompt, thorough, and transparent investigations into all reported attacks against journalists, emphasising that perpetrators must be brought to justice.

“Silence in the face of attacks on journalists emboldens further violations and erodes public trust,” Ojukwu stated, while encouraging journalists to uphold the highest ethical standards and remain steadfast in the pursuit of truth.

He also called on all Nigerians to defend press freedom, stressing that it is a collective responsibility and a cornerstone for the protection of all other rights in a democratic society.

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If you want, I can also tighten it into a more punchy wire-service version (Reuters-style).