The National Human Rights Commission in Nigeria has pledged increased commitment and vigour to the rights, protection and safety of Journalists.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr Tony Ojukwu made the commitment at a media paly with journalists in Abuja, Nigeria.
Interacting with members of the media, Mr Tony Ojukwu said, the commission was concerned with the security of journalists and other persons living in Nigeria.
He noted that the safety of journalists has been an issue in the country and the world, as some journalists operate not only under difficult conditions but also threat to life, harassment and unlawful detention.
The human rights Boss assured that, the commission would stand behind any journalist incarcerated in the course of his official assignment.
Mr. Ojukwu, commended the partnership and efforts of the Nigerian media in projecting the activities of the commission and promoting human rights.
He said, “as a commission, we cannot function effectively without partnering with other institutions such as the media.
“You remained a dependable ally of the commission, propelled by your avowed commitment towards human rights and humanitarian courses.” Ojukwu added.
Also, the Chairman Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ Federal Capital Territory FCT council, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche, called on human rights commission to have a charter on the safety of journalists ahead of the 2023 elections.
He said, “doing so has become necessary as political actors get desperate and see the media as an institution that should be caged.
“Over the past few months, the number of journalists that have been arrested, quizzed and detained is on the rise.”
Ogbeche, promised that NUJ will continue to do its best in ensuring rights violations are minimized.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel NUJ FCT, Mr. Jide Oyekunle, said, the media as a mirror of the society, would stand firm and resist any action against the rights of any Nigerian citizen.
He said, “We will continue to create awareness and educate Nigerians particularly the vulnerable (women and children) on the need to know their rights and how to seek redress whenever such rights are being infringe upon”.
The media palwuchi featured questions and answer sessions on how to promote human rights in Nigeria.
Confidence Okwuchi
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