The Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to comply with the orders of a Federal High Court in Abuja directing it to take measures to prevent attacks on journalists and other media practitioners.
This was contained in a letter signed by the Head of its Legal Department, Ms Obioma Okonkwo, reminding the Attorney-General of the judgment delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo on February 16, 2024.
The statement noted that in a suit filed against the Attorney-General of the Federation, the court granted the eight declarations sought by MRA and issued three orders directing the Federal Government to prevent attacks by being proactive , investigate and punish perpetrators, raise awareness and build capacity among stakeholders.
MRA noted that it had delivered a letter on August 12th and 13th 2024 to the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice expressing “deep concern regarding recent reports of continued attacks and harassment of journalists across Nigeria, particularly during the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place between August 1 and 10, 2024.
“As the chief law officer of the country and Respondent in the suit referred to above, it is your constitutional duty to ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that all orders of court are complied with fully and without delay. Non-compliance with such orders not only undermines the judicial process, it also threatens the very fabric of our democratic society.” she said.
She stressed that the continued disregard for the court’s orders amounts to contempt of court, which will not only erode public confidence in the justice system but also bring the government into disrepute nationally and internationally.
Ms Okonkwo called on the Attorney-General to take “immediate steps to ensure full compliance with the orders of the court to prevent further attacks on journalists and bring those responsible to justice.”
“The world is watching, and it is crucial that Nigeria upholds its democratic obligations and the protection of fundamental human rights, including freedom of the press.”
