The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for zero tolerance against attacks on journalists, warning that repression of the media poses a direct threat to democratic governance.
In a statement marking the 2026 edition of World Press Freedom Day, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, described a free and independent press as the “lifeblood” of any democratic society.
Ojukwu emphasised that press freedom is not a privilege but a fundamental right guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution and reinforced by international human rights obligations. He noted that societies where journalists operate without interference tend to enjoy higher levels of accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.
“Every threat to a journalist constitutes a direct attack on democracy and the public’s right to know,” he said, expressing concern over persistent cases of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, and online harassment targeting media practitioners across the country.
The NHRC boss also condemned the killing of journalists in the line of duty, describing such incidents as grave violations that promote fear and self-censorship within the media landscape, thereby weakening the press’s watchdog role.
As part of its response, the Commission said it has commenced systematic tracking and documentation of press freedom violations nationwide. According to Ojukwu, the data will be made public to support evidence-based advocacy and strengthen accountability mechanisms for the protection of journalists.
He urged government authorities, security agencies, and non-state actors to refrain from actions that obstruct lawful media operations, while calling on law enforcement agencies to conduct prompt, transparent, and impartial investigations into all reported cases of abuse.
“Silence in the face of attacks on journalists emboldens further violations and erodes public trust,” he warned.
Ojukwu also challenged media professionals to uphold ethical standards and remain committed to truth and public interest reporting despite mounting pressures.
He further called on citizens to actively defend press freedom, describing it as a shared responsibility and a cornerstone for safeguarding other fundamental rights.
World Press Freedom Day is observed annually to underscore the importance of a free press and to highlight the need to protect journalists who risk their lives to inform the public.
