In a significant development, a Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a directive on Friday, compelling the Federal Government to investigate and prosecute the perpetrators responsible for the killings of journalists in Nigeria spanning the period from 1986 to 2023.
Among the victims mentioned is Dele Giwa, the founder of Newswatch Magazine. The legal action was initiated by the Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda, which filed a suit against the Attorney-General of the Federation. The organization sought various reliefs, including a declaration that the killing of Nigerian journalists constitutes a violation of their fundamental rights to life.
The court also addressed concerns about the safety of media practitioners, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and the African Charter on Human Rights. The judgment, delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo, explicitly instructed the Federal Government to ensure adequate protection and safety for journalists, in accordance with Sections 33 and 39 of the Constitution and Articles 4 and 9 of the African Charter of Human and Peoples Rights.
This court decision is a significant step toward addressing the long-standing issue of violence against journalists in Nigeria and underscores the importance of upholding the fundamental rights of media professionals. Further details on the court’s ruling are expected to be provided in subsequent updates.
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