Civil society group, Akuko Foundation has joined the global call for an end to the harassment, arbitrary detention, and silencing of journalists discharging their lawful duties across Nigeria, as the world marks International Press Freedom Day.
The group in a statement, emphasised its solidarity with media organizations and brave individuals who risk their lives and liberty to speak truth to power, especially, in the face of growing hostility and repression.
It raised concerns that journalists in Nigeria and across many countries continue to be targets of unlawful arrests, intimidation, smear campaigns and restrictions on public information, simply for doing their jobs.
The statement signed by Programme Manager, Victoria Ukpong, called on governments and law enforcement agencies to uphold their obligations under international law to protect the press and journalists, ensuring that those who target them are prosecuted.
The group warned that these acts not only endanger lives but weaken democracy itself, saying, ”;We believe journalism is not a crime, it is a cornerstone of accountability. A free and independent press is essential for holding power to account, exposing corruption, informing the public, and upholding human rights. When journalists are attacked, society suffers.
”;We call on governments and law enforcement agencies to uphold their obligations under international law to protect journalists, ensure due process, and prosecute those who target them.
”;We also urge public institutions—whether in government, business, or civil society—to embrace openness and see journalistic inquiry not as an adversarial force but as a vital part of healthy democratic governance.
”;At Akuko Foundation, we are committed to defending media freedom and empowering the next generation of storytellers”;.
