By Prosper Okoye
More than 128 journalists in Nigeria have faced detention, harassment, or other threats while performing their duties since 2023. This figure includes 68 documented attacks during the #EndBadGovernance protests in August 2024, where journalists were targeted with violence, arrests, and intimidation.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Gatefield and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) on Tuesday in Abuja. The announcement followed the screening of Gatefield’s Cost of Truth documentary and a civic space dialogue on the state of free speech in Nigeria.
The Cost of Truth documentary sheds light on the human cost of Nigeria’s restrictive laws, particularly Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act, and highlights state actions used to suppress dissent. Through personal narratives and investigative reporting, the film underscores the urgent need for legal reforms to protect journalists and uphold citizens’ rights.
Shirley Ewang, Advocacy Lead at Gatefield, decried the deteriorating state of press freedom in Nigeria.
“Press freedom in Nigeria is under siege, with nearly 70 journalists arrested this year—double the figure from earlier in the year. Citizens, too, feel silenced, as daily threats and intimidation create an atmosphere of fear. But history shows that collective action works. From #FreeDanielOjukwu to resisting the persecution of #EndBadGovernance protesters, we’ve proven that together, we can confront and overcome these challenges to our democracy.”
Tsema Ede, a social justice advocate, highlighted the critical role of citizens in defending democratic rights.
“The most powerful force in any democracy is its citizens. Even when the system fails us, we must remain intentional about protecting our rights, defending the rights of others, and securing our future. Many of us feel weary, but we cannot afford to give in to despair. Our collective strength drives meaningful change, and now, more than ever, we must stand firm.”
Christiana Longe, Project Manager for Media Freedom at CJID, emphasised the constitutional safeguards for press freedom enshrined in Sections 39 and 22 of Nigeria’s Constitution. However, she noted that these rights are increasingly under attack.
Adebayo Aare, Project Associate for Media Freedom at CJID, showcased the Press Attack Tracker, a tool documenting incidents of violence, arrests, and harassment against journalists nationwide.
Calls for Action
The event concluded with journalists and civil society groups calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to end what they described as his administration’s “war against free speech.”
In an open letter, participants urged the government to uphold press freedom and ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists to carry out their work without fear of reprisal.
Audience Reactions
The Cost of Truth documentary left a powerful impression on attendees, many of whom shared their thoughts on the pressing need for action.
Nathan Williams, a journalist with Classic FM, remarked:
“While we may not capture every case of human rights violations against free speech, the voices we’ve heard reflect a shared sentiment. Citizens are realising the importance of speaking up—staying silent only allows more harm. Now is the time to raise our voices.”
Ameenah Bintu Muhammad, Team Lead at Connected Hands for Family Health & Empowerment Initiative, called for broader outreach and localisation of such projects.
“We need more storytelling like this, especially in local languages. In one way or another, every Nigerian has experienced their rights being stifled.”
The Cost of Truth documentary has renewed advocacy for the protection of free speech and the safety of journalists, as well as the reform of oppressive laws undermining Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
