A Kano-based human rights lawyer and activist, Mr. Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo, has called for stronger protection of press freedom, describing it as a “cornerstone of democracy” and an essential tool for ensuring accountability.
Yankuzo, who is also the Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Social Advancement, said in a statement on Friday that a free press remains the public’s “eyes and ears” in a democratic society.
“Freedom of the press must be protected because it is a cornerstone of democracy, acting as the public’s eyes and ears by ensuring government accountability, uncovering injustices, and informing citizens without fear of censorship or retribution,” he said.
He stressed that journalists play a vital role in reporting matters of public interest, adding that such responsibility exposes them to threats, harassment, and violence if their safety is not guaranteed.
“Journalists play a vital role in this by reporting on public interest matters, which requires their protection from threats, harassment, and violence,” Yankuzo noted.
The activist further reminded government authorities that protecting press freedom is not only a political necessity but also a legal obligation.
“Protecting this freedom is a legal obligation for governments, supported by constitutional provisions and international human rights instruments like the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, which mandate a free, safe, and independent media,” he said.
Yankuzo urged the Nigerian government and stakeholders in the justice system to strengthen mechanisms that safeguard journalists and ensure that attacks on press freedom are met with swift accountability.