The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has expresses the commission’s concern over the way and manner freedom of expression and the press as well as journalists safety is being trample upon on a daily basis. According to him, journalists operate under difficult conditions where freedom is relegated to the background.
Ojukwu made this known on Tuesday while delivering a speech at the opening of a two-day training program organised by the commission for journalists and media practitioners.
According to Mr Ojukwu, the training with the theme, “Defending the Rights of Journalists and Media Practitioners through National Safety Mechanism.” is designed to give more insight into the situation and challenges of journalism practice in Nigeria.
He added that it was another opportunity for media practitioners and experts in the field to share experiences.
“It is not gainsaid that safety of journalists has been a growing concern in the country and elsewhere in the world.
“Given that some journalists operate under difficult conditions, where freedom of expression and the press is relegated to the background.
“In such climes, the issue of censorship, harassment, unlawful arrest and detention and assassination are not uncommon,” he maintained.
Meanwhile, the NHRC boss said despite constitutional guarantees and legislation, journalists’ rights were often violated and trampled upon.
He noted that the culprits could be state or non-state actors or others who are not comfortable with certain investigated issues.
“In view of the foregoing, capacity building training is very crucial to help journalists survive in any situation and pragmatically discharge their duties effectively.
“The UN Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, says, in a climate where journalists are safe, citizens find it easier to access quality information and many objectives become possible as a result,” he said.
