The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have renewed calls for enhanced protection of journalists and stronger enforcement of human rights in Nigeria, amid worsening insecurity across the country.
The call was made during a joint conference held in Lagos to mark the World Press Freedom Day 2026. The event, themed “The Role of the Media in Promoting People’s Rights, Accountability, and Access to Justice in the Context of Growing Insecurity in Nigeria,” brought together media professionals and civil society actors.
Speakers at the event highlighted the crucial role of the press in defending human rights, ensuring accountability, and amplifying the voices of victims affected by violence and insecurity. They stressed the need for ethical, victim-focused reporting that promotes justice and transparency.
SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, warned that insecurity continues to undermine fundamental freedoms and public trust. He noted that protecting journalists and preserving the integrity of information are essential for peace, security, and democratic stability.
According to him, persistent violence—including killings, abductions, sexual assaults, and displacement—has deepened governance challenges and weakened citizens’ confidence in institutions. He added that delays in responding to Freedom of Information requests further erode transparency.
Oluwadare emphasised that tackling insecurity requires more than reactive measures, urging authorities to embed accountability, transparency, and human rights into governance and security frameworks.
Also speaking, the Assistant General Secretary of the NGE, Gabriel Akinadewo, outlined key recommendations to the government. These include safeguarding press freedom, protecting journalists, promoting ethical reporting, and ensuring thorough investigations into human rights violations.
He also called for the prosecution of perpetrators and their sponsors, improved transparency in security operations, and adequate compensation and support for victims of violence.
The groups further urged the government to strengthen legal and institutional mechanisms to prevent future abuses, including the creation of early warning systems and public reporting platforms to track incidents and responses.
In addition, they called on the National Assembly to hold a public hearing on insecurity and attacks on journalists, with a view to improving accountability and legislative protections for media practitioners.
The organisations also appealed to the international community to intensify pressure on Nigerian authorities to address insecurity and uphold human rights commitments. They recommended inviting international and regional human rights bodies to conduct independent assessments of the situation in the country.
In his remarks, NGE President, Eze Anaba, stressed the need to prioritise justice and support for victims of terrorism. He noted that beyond prosecuting offenders, greater attention must be given to helping victims recover and reintegrate into society.
He added that the media has a responsibility to give voice to victims and ensure their stories are heard, especially at a time when insecurity continues to affect many communities across Nigeria.
