The House of Representatives has issued a directive to the police and other security agencies to cease the arbitrary arrest and detention of journalists in Nigeria.
The House urged these agencies to adhere to Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2015 (as amended) and to prosecute individuals, including journalists, in court if they violate any laws, rather than infringing on their constitutional rights.
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This directive followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep Clement Jimbo during the plenary session on Thursday.
Rep Jimbo emphasized that freedom of the press is a fundamental right enshrined in Section 39 Sub-Section (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He highlighted that this right ensures journalists can report news without fear of arrest or persecution.
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“Freedom of the press is sine qua non of democracy; it serves as an essential ingredient for holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency. Moreover, journalism is regarded as the Fourth Estate of the Realm,” Jimbo stated.
He expressed concern over the increasing number of journalists being unlawfully arrested, detained, and harassed under the guise of cyber-stalking offenses within the Cybercrimes Act 2015.
“Between 2015 and 2024, there have been incessant unwarranted arrests, unlawful detention, and various forms of harassment and intimidation of at least 25 journalists in the course of their duty, threatening the very fundamental pillar of democracy and culminating in a breach of their constitutionally guaranteed rights to free speech,” Jimbo noted.
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He also mentioned that earlier this year, the president signed an amended act with substantial adjustments to Section 24, clarifying what constitutes cyber-stalking and the associated punishments.
However, law enforcement agents have reportedly ignored these amendments and continued their clampdown on free speech.
Jimbo pointed out that the arrest of journalist Mr. Ojukwu in March 2024, shortly after World Press Day, was particularly disturbing.
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He noted that such actions have contributed to Nigeria being rated as one of West Africa’s most dangerous places to practice journalism, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
The lawmaker warned that these arrests could lead to a worsening climate for investigative and independent journalism in Nigeria, damaging the country’s democratic reputation.
In response, the House of Representatives adopted the motion and urged the passage of laws to strengthen press freedom protections.
They also called for inquiries into recent cases of journalists’ detention and diplomatic efforts to pressure the government to respect press freedom.
The House mandated its Committee on National Security to ensure compliance with these directives.
