SERAP, NGE Urge Tinubu, Governors to Protect Journalists, End Insecurity and Impunity

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have called on the administration of Bola Tinubu, alongside state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to take urgent steps to safeguard press freedom, protect journalists, and address rising insecurity and human rights violations across Nigeria.

The call followed a joint conference organised by SERAP and NGE in Lagos to mark World Press Freedom Day, where stakeholders examined the role of the media in promoting accountability and access to justice amid worsening insecurity.

In a joint statement, both organisations stressed that the protection of journalists and the integrity of information are essential to peace, security, and democratic stability. They warned that any credible response to Nigeria’s security challenges must include support for a free, independent, and pluralistic media.

The groups raised concerns over persistent violence in parts of northern Nigeria, including killings, abductions, sexual violence, and mass displacement. According to them, thousands have been killed and millions displaced, with rural communities—particularly women and children—bearing the brunt of the crisis.

They noted that these patterns reflect systemic failures by authorities to prevent attacks, protect citizens, investigate violations, and prosecute offenders. The statement emphasised that such failures breach Nigeria’s obligations under the Constitution and international human rights frameworks.

SERAP and NGE further warned that continued impunity is eroding public trust and weakening democratic governance, while the suppression of independent journalism fuels corruption, misinformation, and institutional breakdown.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who spoke at the event, described impunity as a key driver of violence, noting that the destruction of communities without accountability undermines the legitimacy of government. He added that journalists remain critical partners in exposing abuses and strengthening democracy.

The intervention comes amid growing concerns about attacks on journalists and shrinking civic space in Nigeria, alongside escalating insecurity in several regions. The groups highlighted that constitutional provisions—particularly Sections 22 and 39—mandate the media to hold government accountable and guarantee freedom of expression.

They also referenced international obligations requiring Nigerian authorities not only to refrain from interfering with press freedom but to actively ensure a safe environment for journalists, especially those reporting on conflict and human rights issues.

The organisations argued that protecting journalists is not secondary but central to tackling insecurity, as information suppression often precedes broader violence and governance failure.

SERAP and NGE urged the federal and state governments to guarantee press freedom, conduct thorough investigations into abuses, prosecute perpetrators, and provide justice and compensation for victims. They also called for stronger oversight by the National Assembly and increased international engagement to address insecurity and uphold human rights.

They concluded that restoring security and public confidence in Nigeria will require sustained commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, with a free media playing a central role in that process.