The International Press Institute Nigeria (IPI) has held a two-day training for leading journalists on how to avoid ‘Slapp Suites’ and remain ethical in their work.
The programme, which was sponsored by the MacArthur Foundation, explained how governments, politicians, and influential citizens routinely use ‘Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP)’ as a repressive instrument to undermine ethical journalism.
The workshop enlightened journalists on the importance of recognizing their boundaries when utilizing the Constitution and other legal instruments. These laws encompass media regulations, anti-piracy legislation, cybercrime prohibition statutes, defamation law, as well as NBC guidelines and ethical codes.
Facilitators at the workshop using different case studies also spoke on legal loopholes that senior journalists must avoid, dangerous laws to pay attention to in other not to trigger media repressions and lawsuits as well as best practices for reducing, avoiding and resolving lawsuits
The workshop also emphasised the need to verify stories using different platforms, and steps to take to fact-check stories and the need to develop a critical mindset.
Malam Kabiru Yusuf, the Board Chairman of IPI Nigeria, encouraged attendees to capitalize on the program by upholding ethical principles in fulfilling their duties and avoiding legal violations.
Mojeed Musikilu, the President of IPI Nigeria, articulated that the workshop was arranged to address issues related to unethical behaviour and to enhance media proficiency through professional development.
He said, “We have been discussing laws, problems of unprofessional conduct and all of that. We are hoping that in the end, our colleagues will be more professional.
“We are hopeful that we’ve been able to discuss all of these problems that are mitigating against the Nigerian Journalism sector.”
The workshop underscored the importance of utilizing diverse platforms to verify stories, as well as outlining steps for fact-checking and promoting a critical mindset. Additionally, it highlighted the necessity of having legal advisors on media organizations’ editorial boards or retained for necessary legal guidance when confronted with lawsuits.
While litigation cannot be entirely avoided and should not be discouraged, all participants agreed that editors should make every effort to circumvent it because of its costly and time-consuming nature.
The training emphasized that since reputation is paramount, ethics and professionalism are essential; fulfilling civic obligations, respecting and obeying laws, and maintaining ethical boundaries were also deemed crucial.
The training held in Lagos marked the second phase of IPI’s “SLAPP Suits and Ethics” program, aimed at equipping journalists with essential skills to navigate obnoxious laws. IPI has expressed its intention to extend this initiative to other Nigerian cities.
SLAPP Suits, also known as strategic lawsuits against public participation, are legal actions designed to suppress criticism or opposition by imposing a financial burden on critics until they give up their stance or voice.
