Table of Contents
- Call for Action
- Increase in Attacks
- Importance of Press Freedom
- Urgent Action Needed
- Collective Efforts
- International Human Rights Day
The International Press Centre (IPC) has reiterated its call for ongoing efforts to protect the rights and safety of journalists throughout Nigeria.
In a statement released through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub on Wednesday, in honor of International Human Rights Day, the IPC highlighted that assaults on journalists have been on the rise.
Documentation from the Hub reveals that from 2020 to 2024, incidents of harassment, assault, and other violations have increased by at least 40 percent.
IPC Executive Director Lanre Arogundade stated that the theme serves as a reminder that press freedom must remain a priority for both media stakeholders and policymakers.
“The theme for IHRD 2025 is a wake-up call. We cannot ignore the fundamental rights of journalists. We must continue to prioritize the protection of press freedom in Nigeria. We oppose any actions, legislation, regulations, or political pressures that restrict freedom of the press,” Arogundade emphasized.
He further remarked that the challenges faced by Nigerian journalists today require immediate attention.
“These are challenging times, and we must do more to foster an environment conducive to journalism. It is crucial that the rights of journalists are not merely written words but are recognized, felt, and experienced in reality.”
The IPC-SPJ Hub called upon media organizations, civil society, and authorities to enhance their efforts in promoting and defending journalists' rights, which are vital to democracy and human rights.
International Human Rights Day is observed each year on December 10 to celebrate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
This year's global theme, ‘Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,’ emphasizes the significance of rights that influence daily life, including freedom of expression, access to information, dignity in the workplace, and protection against oppression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Press Centre calling for?
The IPC is calling for sustained efforts to protect the rights and safety of journalists across Nigeria.
What does the IPC's documentation indicate about attacks on journalists?
It indicates that between 2020 and 2024, incidents of harassment, assault, and other violations have increased by at least 40 percent.
Why is press freedom important according to the IPC?
Press freedom is essential for democracy and human rights, and the IPC emphasizes that it must be prioritized by all stakeholders.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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