By Ochiaka Ugwu
As the world marks World Press Freedom Day, the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has called on the government and security agencies to remove barriers hindering journalism and to ensure the protection of journalists across the country.
In a statement released in Abuja Saturday, jointly signed by Legal Adviser of IPI Nigeria and Chairman of Advocacy Committee, Tobi Soniyi and Secretary of Advocacy Committee, Ochiaka Ugwu, the institute urged journalists to reaffirm their commitment to professional standards while highlighting the challenges they continue to face in the course of their work.
According to the statement, “We call on the federal and state governments, as well as their agencies, to uphold press freedom by removing all obstacles to journalism practice in Nigeria,” the statement read.
IPI Nigeria specifically appealed to security agencies to stop using the Cybercrimes Act as a tool to intimidate and harass journalists. Instead, they urged authorities to prioritize the protection of journalists, emphasizing that a vibrant and free press is crucial to building a better society.
The statement also praised Nigerian journalists for their resilience and professionalism despite facing threats and difficult conditions.
IPI Nigeria called on media employers to ensure fair remuneration, warning that unpaid salaries and poor working conditions pose significant threats to press freedom.
“May 3rd every year marks a global celebration of press freedom principles, assessing media freedom worldwide, and honoring journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” the institute noted.
IPI Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to defending media freedom and supporting independent journalism wherever it is under threat.
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