By Joke Kujenya
CALLS FOR urgent protection of journalists and decisive action against insecurity have been directed at the administration of Bola Tinubu, state governors and Federal Capital Territory authorities by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the demand followed a joint conference held in Lagos to mark World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2026, focusing on the role of the media in promoting accountability and access to justice amid rising violence.
In a joint statement, the groups stressed that protecting journalists is fundamental to national stability, warning that “any credible peace, recovery, or security strategy in Nigeria must integrate support for free, independent, and pluralistic media.”
They expressed concern over persistent violence in parts of northern Nigeria, including killings, abductions, sexual violence and widespread displacement, stating that thousands have reportedly been killed while millions have been forced from their homes, with women and children disproportionately affected.
“These patterns reflect systemic failures to prevent foreseeable harm, protect communities, investigate violations, prosecute perpetrators and their sponsors, and ensure access to justice,” the statement said.
The organisations warned that impunity continues to erode public trust and weaken democratic institutions, insisting that authorities have constitutional and international obligations to protect citizens and uphold human rights.
They noted that the 2026 theme of WPFD stresses the importance of a free media in sustaining peace and development, cautioning that attacks on journalists and suppression of information often precede broader societal breakdown.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana said, “Entire communities are being destroyed in several parts of the north while perpetrators operate with little or no consequences. Impunity is not just a failure of justice it is a driver of further violence.”
He added, “Journalists are not the enemy of the State they are essential partners in exposing abuse, preventing violence, and strengthening democracy.”
The groups also urged authorities to conduct prompt and independent investigations into violations, prosecute offenders and ensure justice for victims.
They called for greater transparency in security operations and the establishment of public reporting systems to track incidents and responses.
NGE and SERAP also appealed to the National Assembly (NASS) to convene a public hearing on insecurity and attacks on journalists, while urging international bodies to intensify pressure on Nigerian authorities to uphold human rights and media freedom.
They added that addressing insecurity requires sustained commitment to accountability, transparency and the rule of law to restore public confidence and end the cycle of violence.
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