Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “urgently instruct the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, to withdraw the threat to sanction theover their documentaries on terrorism in the country, whether through the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission or any other agency of the government.”for airing documentaries that allegedly “glorify”, “promote”, and “fuel” terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.
The organisation said, “Rather than punishing the media for promoting access to diverse opinions and information on issues of public importance, your government should focus on delivering your promises to ensure the security of Nigerians.”would lessen the flow of diverse viewpoints and information to the public.”
“A free, uncensored, and unhindered press or other media is essential in any society to ensure freedom of opinion and expression and the enjoyment of other rights. It constitutes one of the cornerstones of a democratic society.”would be entirely inconsistent and incompatible with Nigeria’s obligations under article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
“Access to information is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights and freedoms and constitutes a fundamental pillar for building a democratic society and strengthening democracy.”