From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, the Akuko Foundation, a media advocacy and training non-governmental organisation (NGO), has called for the protection of journalists and increased transparency from public institutions.
In a statement issued by its Programme Manager, Victoria Ukpong, the organisation
emphasised the critical role of a free press in a democratic society and condemns the ongoing harassment and detention of journalists.
According to the Akuko Foundation, journalists in Nigeria and across the globe are facing threats such as “unlawful arrests, intimidation, smear campaigns, and restrictions on access to public information.” These actions, the foundation asserted, endanger lives and undermine democracy.
The Akuko Foundation firmly believes that “journalism is not a crime” but rather “a cornerstone of accountability.” It advocated for a free and independent press as essential for holding power accountable, exposing corruption, informing the public, and upholding human rights. “When journalists are attacked, society suffers,” the organization stated.
The foundation urged governments and law enforcement agencies to adhere to international law by protecting journalists, ensuring due process, and prosecuting those who target them. Additionally, it called on public institutions in government, business, and civil society to embrace openness and recognize journalistic inquiry as a vital component of healthy democratic governance.
The Akuko Foundation assured of its dedication to defending media freedom and empowering the next generation of storytellers. The organization focuses on providing capacity-building programmes for journalists, advocating for policies that safeguard the media, and supporting efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in public institutions.
As the Akuko Foundation works to secure foundational support, it pledged to continue engaging with media platforms to strengthen visibility and amplify the voice of independent journalism.