Laws from the Past Continue to Threaten Media Freedom in Nigeria
In a recent two-day workshop on "Laws Affecting the Media and Safety of Journalists in Nigeria," the Media Rights Agenda (MRA) identified and condemned laws enacted during the colonial and military era that are still used to intimidate and repress journalists and the media in Nigeria. These outdated laws, including the Official Secrets Act of 1962, the Nigeria Press Council Act of 1992, and the National Broadcasting Commission Act of 1992, have not undergone significant modifications and remain largely restrictive towards the media sector and journalists.
The MRA also highlighted the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, which has become a potent instrument for public office holders, politicians, and other powerful individuals to misuse and abuse the law to harass, intimidate, and repress journalists and the media. This law has stifled media freedom and created a hostile digital environment for journalists.
In response, the MRA encouraged journalists to adopt security measures to protect themselves, their sources, and their devices from malicious actors and government agencies. The organisation also advised media organisations to adopt digital security policies and implement protocols to detect and mitigate internal and external threats to their information and data.
The workshop sessions covered a range of topics, including national, regional, and international frameworks on freedom of expression, media freedom, and the safety of journalists. Journalists learned about legal frameworks that are inimical to media freedom, digital security, and common digital threats to journalism practice. They also gained insights on ethics in journalism practice, the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, and how to avoid legal liabilities as journalists.
The MRA’s efforts aim to promote media freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria. By shedding light on outdated laws and providing guidance on digital security, the organisation hopes to empower journalists to continue their important work without fear of intimidation or harassment.
