The Human and Environmental Development Agenda [HEDA Resource Centre] has reminded the federal government that freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed under Nigeria’s constitution and that any attempt to censor the news media is an outright breach of this right in violation of not only the constitution but all international treaties ratified by Nigeria.
HEDA issued the warning in Lagos on Sunday in response to the Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, who has accused online media, specifically Premium Times and SaharaReporters, of publishing reports deliberately contrived to undermine military strategy, demoralize Nigerian troops and even cause incitement to mutiny.
According to HEDA, the Minister made the remarks specifically in reaction to a series of factual reports by Premium Times in which it exposed the government’s neglect of the Nigerian Troops in Mali as well as the violations of security forces confronting Boko Haram’s brutal insurgency.
It commended these online news media and several others for their objective and independent position in the reportage of National issues and holding government and its officials accountable.
“The right of Nigerians to know is one that should never be undermined at anytime,” the statement said. “We support these media as they continue to expose corruption, ineptitude and human rights abuses in private and public institutions. Their efforts are geared towards ensuring Nigerians make objective decisions on issues that impact on their daily lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment