Editors and SERAP Demand Press Freedom Safeguards

On Saturday, ahead of World Press Freedom Day, editors and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) issued a joint statement urging the Nigerian government to safeguard press freedom and address the escalating insecurity in the country. They warned that the erosion of media independence and the increasing threats to journalists are worsening government challenges and undermining efforts to restore peace, particularly in northern Nigeria, including states like Benue, Plateau, Borno, Sokoto, and Kwara.

The organizations stressed the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring that information integrity is central to achieving peace, security, and democratic stability. They argued that effective responses to insecurity must incorporate support for free, independent, and pluralistic media alongside humanitarian and economic measures.

SERAP expressed concern over widespread violence against journalists, including killings and abductions, and called for strengthened security measures in high-risk areas, independent investigations into abuses, and accountability for perpetrators. The statement was signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare and NGE General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh.