JUST IN: Court Orders FG To Probe Dele Giwa’s Death, Others
A Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, February 16, issued an order to the Federal Government, instructing them to conduct an investigation and prosecute the individuals responsible for the killings of journalists in Nigeria between 1986 and 2023.
One notable victim during this period was Dele Giwa, the founder of Newswatch Magazine.
The Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda had taken legal action against the Attorney-General of the Federation, seeking various remedies, including a declaration that the killing of Nigerian journalists violates their fundamental right to life.
Furthermore, the organization sought the enforcement of media practitioners’ fundamental right to safety, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and the African Charter on Human Rights.
MRA also highlighted that some journalists continue to face harassment from security agencies, with the Attorney-General of the Federation allegedly failing to take appropriate action.
In his ruling, Justice Inyang Ekwo directed the Federal Government to ensure the adequate protection and safety of journalists’ lives, as outlined in Sections 33 and 39 of the Constitution, as well as Articles 4 and 9 of the African Charter of Human and Peoples Rights.
