The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong warning against the repression of the press, declaring zero tolerance for attacks on journalists and describing press freedom as the “lifeblood” of Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2026, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, emphasized that a free and independent media is not a privilege but a fundamental right enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights instruments.
Ojukwu stressed that societies with vibrant press freedom enjoy higher levels of accountability, transparency, and public participation, while any attempt to silence journalists weakens democratic institutions and erodes public trust.
The NHRC boss strongly condemned the killing of journalists in the line of duty, noting that such attacks breed fear, self-censorship, and diminish the media’s critical watchdog role in society.
To address these challenges, the Commission has commenced systematic nationwide tracking and documentation of press freedom violations. Ojukwu said the findings will be made public to drive evidence-based advocacy and ensure greater accountability.
He urged government officials, security agencies, and non-state actors to stop all actions that impede lawful journalistic work, while calling on law enforcement to conduct prompt, thorough, and transparent investigations into all cases of attacks on media practitioners.
Ojukwu also challenged journalists to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics and truth-telling, even under pressure, and called on all Nigerians to actively defend press freedom as a shared responsibility essential for protecting other democratic rights.
The observance of World Press Freedom Day serves as a global reminder of the vital role of a free press in sustaining democracy and the need to protect journalists who risk their lives in pursuit of truth.
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