A cardinal principle of law is the presumption of innocence of the accused person in criminal or other proceedings. But this principle is often, though not always, flouted by the nation’s security agencies when they conduct trials in the media by sensationalising the allegations against suspects.
The violation is also at play when the police parade suspects before the television cameras. It does not matter whether or not the accused person has confessed to the crime: trial is the province of the courts. That is what civilised existence entails.
It is in the courts that facts are established in the eyes of the law and judgement given. The court of public opinion needs to be guided aright, not misled. Purveying false or misleading information just to give the impression of activeness is wrong and in fact actionable. The security agencies would do well to bear this inviolable principle of law in mind all the time.
The media would also do well not to report allegations as facts. It would be presumptuous for the media to usurp the functions of the judiciary. Conducting anti-corruption campaigns in accordance with the laws of the land is the right way to go.
Oluwanisomo Mayowa: 07033323359
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