By Milcah Tanimu

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has highlighted a distressing pattern of danger for journalists in Nigeria, revealing that 22 journalists have been killed in the country since 1992. In response to this dire situation, the CPJ called on President Bola Tinubu to take deliberate actions to bolster journalists’ freedom and safety.

In a statement released by CPJ President Jodie Ginsberg on August 29, the organization implored President Tinubu to enact legislative changes, rules, and measures to halt the unjust imprisonment and surveillance of journalists. Ginsberg emphasized that journalists in Nigeria face consistent threats, harassment, and physical attacks from security personnel, politicians, and their supporters while on duty, including while covering protests and elections.

The statement pointed out that during the recent presidential and state election period, CPJ documented over 40 instances of intimidation attempts, physical assaults, or journalist detentions. Since 1992, CPJ has recorded the deaths of at least 22 journalists in Nigeria, along with two others who remain missing and presumed dead. Of these cases, a minimum of 12 journalists were confirmed to have been killed due to their journalistic work.

CPJ called on President Tinubu to ensure justice for attacks on the press and to spearhead legal and regulatory reforms to prevent the incarceration and surveillance of journalists. The committee also urged the President to facilitate uninterrupted access to the internet, online platforms, and news websites.

Furthermore, CPJ encouraged President Tinubu to utilize his three-month anniversary to reinvigorate press freedom across Nigeria. The organization’s message underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to safeguard journalists’ lives, rights, and ability to operate without fear of harm or retribution.