The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has hailed the judgment of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in favour of journalist Jide Oyekunle, describing it as a significant victory for journalism, press freedom, and the protection of media practitioners in Nigeria.
The union said the court’s decision, which awarded N10 million in damages against the Nigerian government for violating Oyekunle’s rights, marks an important milestone in the fight to safeguard journalists and uphold freedom of the press.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the NUJ National Secretary, Comrade Achike Chude, the union commended Avocats Sans Frontières France (ASF France) for providing legal representation and standing by the Independent Newspaper journalist throughout the legal process.
According to the NUJ, the judgment serves as a strong reminder of the need to protect journalists who carry out their constitutional responsibility of informing the public, stressing that attacks, intimidation, and harassment of media professionals must not be tolerated.
The union called on the Nigerian government to comply without delay with the ECOWAS Court’s judgment by paying the N10 million compensation awarded to Oyekunle.
It noted that prompt compliance would demonstrate respect for the rule of law and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to upholding human rights and protecting press freedom.
The NUJ also urged the government and relevant authorities to implement stronger measures to guarantee the safety, security, and independence of journalists across the country, emphasizing that a free and protected press remains essential to democracy and good governance.
