On World Human Rights Day, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) condemned Nigeria’s use of repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024 and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP), to intimidate journalists, activists, and civil society organizations (CSOs).
These measures, they say, undermine democracy, violate constitutional rights, and contradict Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
“Security agencies have weaponised the Cybercrime Act, especially Section 24 on ‘cyberstalking,’ to harass those exercising press freedom and free expression,” said Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP Deputy Director.
In 2024 alone, 56 journalists were assaulted or arrested during protests, while attacks on the press surged, according to the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development.
The Committee to Protect Journalists reports ongoing detentions under the Cybercrime Act.
Prominent cases include investigative journalist Fejiro Oliver, detained since September 18 on cyberbullying charges, and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore, charged over alleged ‘anti-Tinubu’ posts.
“Criminal defamation and SLAPP lawsuits are being misused to silence dissent and restrict fundamental freedoms,” said Onuoha Ukeh, NGE General Secretary.
“This threatens the very fabric of democracy and human rights in Nigeria.”
The statement calls on President Bola Tinubu, government officials, lawmakers, and security agencies to immediately halt harassment, release detained journalists and activists, and withdraw spurious charges.
They urge a comprehensive review of restrictive laws to align with constitutional protections and international commitments.
Finally, SERAP and NGE appealed to the international community to hold Nigerian authorities accountable and ensure respect for press freedom and human rights.
“Journalists and activists play an indispensable role in safeguarding democracy. Suppressing them endangers all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
