MRA presses Abuja to obey court orders against attacks on journalists, to strengthen democracy
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Abuja has been pressed by the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) to comply with the orders of the Federal High Court which directed it to take concrete measures to prevent attacks on journalists and other media practitioners.
MRA urged the government to investigate, prosecute, and penalise perpetrators of all attacks against journalists, in a letter written to federal Attorney General and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi, which stressed deep concern over persistent assaults on and harassment of journalists across the country.
“Non-compliance with such orders not only undermines the judicial process but also threatens the very fabric of our democratic society,” said Obioma Okonkwo, Head of MRA Legal Department.
She warned that disregard for court orders is contempt of court which could erode public confidence in the justice system and bring the government into disrepute at home and internationally.
Okonkwo urged Fagbemi to take immediate steps to ensure full compliance with the court orders to bring the perpetrators to justice and head off further attacks.
She also pressed him to act quickly to uphold the rule of law and demonstrate his commitment to justice by ensuring the safety and security of journalists across Nigeria.
“The world is watching, and Nigeria must uphold its democratic obligations and the protection of fundamental human rights, including freedom of the press,” she added.
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