The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, has called for zero tolerance against all forms of attacks and violations targeting journalists and media organisations in Nigeria, underscoring the critical role of press freedom in sustaining democracy.
The call was contained in a statement issued by the Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3.
Dr. Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Chief Human Rights Officer, reaffirmed that a free, independent, and pluralistic media remains indispensable to the protection of human rights and the consolidation of democratic governance.
He stressed that there is a clear and undeniable link between press freedom and democracy, noting that societies where the media operates freely tend to enjoy greater accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.
Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), maintained that press freedom is not a privilege but a fundamental right guaranteed under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as under various regional and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a signatory.
He warned that any threat to journalists amounts to a direct attack on democracy and the public’s right to access information. The NHRC boss expressed concern over continued reports of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, and online harassment of journalists across the country.
He also condemned incidents involving the killing of journalists in the line of duty, describing such acts as grave violations that foster fear, encourage self-censorship, and weaken democratic accountability.
According to him, the Commission has begun systematic tracking and documentation of press freedom violations nationwide. He added that findings from the exercise would be made public to enhance transparency, accountability, and evidence-based advocacy.
Dr. Ojukwu further urged government authorities, security agencies, and non-state actors to desist from actions that hinder the lawful operations of the media. He called on law enforcement agencies to ensure thorough, prompt, and transparent investigations into all reported cases, stressing that perpetrators must be brought to justice.
“Silence in the face of attacks on journalists emboldens further violations and erodes public trust,” he stated.
As Nigeria mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, Ojukwu encouraged journalists to adhere to the highest ethical standards while remaining resolute in their duty to seek and report the truth.
He also called on citizens to actively defend press freedom, describing it as a shared responsibility and a cornerstone for safeguarding all other rights in a democratic society.
