Core human rights: Freedom of expression and media freedom in Nigeria.

This is following the news according to DAILYPOST after The National Broadcasting Commission, NBC has sternly warned Arise Television against the use of derogatory and incendiary remarks in its station:

• … a bid to educate the public on the possible consequences of the president’s certificate, which the opposition alleged does not tally with the one submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC for the last election, the TV station has had interviews with a number of guests…

RULAAC believes that freedom of expression is at the core of human individuality and is one of the essential foundations of a safe and prosperous society.

The right of everyone to hold opinions without interference and the right to freedom of expression are in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and reaffirmed in Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

This includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, whether orally, in writing or in print, or through any other media of choice. Certain restrictions are only permissible when in line with international human rights law.

RULAAC is seriously concerned about violations and the imminent potential for further violations of freedom of expression, including freedom of the media, in discussions around issues relating to President Tinubu’s dubious credentials.

In line with the need to protect freedom of expression, RULAAC calls on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to acknowledge that media freedom remains an important part of democratic societies and essential to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. People need free media to provide them with accurate information and informed analysis to hold governments to account.

Okechukwu Nwanguma
Executive Director, RULAAC