I urge the security agencies to stop the harassment of human rights activists, journalists and bloggers and to respect the freedom of expression. I expressed deep concern over what appears to be an increase in harassment by security services of journalists and activists going about their work.
A free press is central to democracy and its mandate as assigned in section 22 of the Nigerian constitution includes that of being watchdog on all aspects of governance while advancing democracy and promoting the building of a just and equitable society.
I’m particularly disturbed by the fact that a democratically elected government appears ready to trample all over the media when it carries out its duties as stipulated in the constitution. This document is the same one that confers legitimacy and authority on you and the office you hold. I urge Nigeria’s security services to cease and desist from harassing and arresting journalists for carrying out their constitutional role of gathering and reporting news and information.
I further made a case for fair and balanced reporting of issues, saying: While we appreciate the interest of journalists in the coverage of the activities of the government, I urge accurate and constructive reporting, as it is a known fact that we cannot truly develop our nation if journalists continue to twist and fabricate stories with the intent of misinforming the public.
With the advent of the social media, leaders are now more careful, and being kept on their toes. The advent of social media has made it possible for leaders to be more accountable and some leaders have made effective use of the social media.
In a similar tone, an activist, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, condemned the action, describing it as a threat to the nation’s democracy. It is a deliberate attempt by this government to roll back the hands of the clock and ruin the success of the economy. It is against the rights of the people.
Reacting to the development, an Abuja-based and human rights activist, condemned the attack and described it as barbaric and uncivilised.
He said, “It is a breach of the provisions of the constitution, especially Chapter Four, which guarantees freedom of expression and freedom of the press. Such Act curtails free speech and poses a danger to the sustenance of democracy because it is free speech that sustains democracy.
Alfa Tijani, a media aficionado, writes from Kogi state
