The government of the United Kingdom as well as the United Nations, has described the attacks on media houses and journalists in Nigeria as disturbing.
This was made known by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, on Monday on the occasion of the 2020 International Day to End Impunity For Crimes Against Journalists.
She said all harassment and victimisation of the press has to stop, adding that the press is crucial in holding governments accountable to the people.
“A free press is essential for an informed citizenry. Journalists play a crucial role in holding our governments to account and preventing impunity. Journalists should never be intimidated or attacked for pursuing the truth,” she tweeted.
Also, the Director, United Nations Information Centre in Nigeria, Ronald Kayanja, while speaking during a virtual meeting on Monday, called for the protection of journalists and media houses.
According to him, the brazen attacks on journalists and media houses calls for concern, while urhing authorities to investigate such cases and bring perpetrators to book.
“One way to fight fake news and hate speech which is pervasive through digital media is to strengthen the independent media.
“Just like support is being provided for other sectors of the economy, to build back a better media the industry should also be supported,” the UN official said.
