The House of Representatives on Thursday took steps to address the frequent and unlawful arrest and detention of journalists by law enforcement agencies in the country.
The House also warned against such harmful practices, emphasizing that protecting journalists’ rights is essential not only for upholding democracy but also for safeguarding the principles of free speech and human rights.
The House urged the Nigerian Police and other law enforcement agencies to adhere strictly to Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2015, as amended, and to prosecute anyone, including journalists, in court if they have violated any laws, rather than depriving them of their constitutional rights.
Additionally, the House resolved to pass laws to strengthen press freedom protections, conduct inquiries into recent cases of journalist detentions, and engage in diplomatic efforts to pressure the government to respect press freedom.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Hon. Clement Jimbo from Akwa-Ibom during the plenary session on Thursday.
Moving the motion, Jimbo emphasized that freedom of the press is a fundamental right enshrined in Section 39, subsection (1) of the 1999 constitution, as amended, which guarantees journalists the ability to report news without fear of arrest or persecution.
According to him, freedom of the press is essential for democracy, as it holds the government accountable and ensures transparency, with journalism regarded as the fourth estate of the realm.
Jimbo noted a troubling increase in the number of journalists being unlawfully arrested, detained, and harassed for performing their professional duties, citing the offense of Cyber-Stalking within the Cybercrimes Act, 2015.
He observed that between 2015 and 2024, there have been numerous unwarranted arrests, unlawful detentions, and various forms of harassment and intimidation against at least 25 journalists in the course of their duties. This trend threatens the very foundation of democracy and constitutes a breach of their constitutionally guaranteed rights to free speech.
Jimbo acknowledged that in early 2024, the President signed the amended Cybercrime Act with significant adjustments to Section 24, which defines cyber-stalking and prescribes punishments. However, law enforcement agents have neglected this aspect and continued their clampdown on free speech. Regrettably, at least 10 journalists have been arrested in the past year, and 15 during the previous regime.
He expressed concern that these arrests and their consequences could worsen the climate for investigative and independent journalism in the country, undermining Nigeria’s fourth republic democracy.
“Worried that the arrest in March 2024 of Mr. Ojukwu, in particular, was most disturbing, as his commando-style arrest came barely 43 hours after this year’s World Press Day. Actions like this have led to international opinion rating Nigeria as one of West Africa’s most dangerous places to practice journalism by Reporters Without Borders (RSF),” he argued.
Adopting the motion, the House mandated the committees on National Security to ensure compliance.