Eunice Afolabi
Some experts in Nigeria’s media sector have approved a National Response Mechanism (NRM) aimed at addressing issues facing the safety of journalists in the country according to global best practices.
The NRM will be guided by a detailed legislative framework for protecting the right to life, freedom of expression, and associated rights which would be regularly reviewed to ensure that the safeguards and enforcement machinery it provides are robust and effective in practice.
The proposal for setting up NRM was initiated during a one-day stakeholders’ roundtable discussion organized by the International Press Centre (IPC), in Abuja.
The roundtable dialogue was focused on strengthening mechanisms as well as creating strategic actions to methodically mitigate the various threats to the safety of journalists amidst general violation of press freedom of expression and press freedom, and the shrinking of the civic space in Nigeria.
The participants were from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs), the media and allied associations as well as regulatory bodies.
Speakers at the event are Mr. Edetaen Ojo, Executive Director, Media Rights Agenda Mr. Mojeed Musikilu, President, Nigeria chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI).
They noted that, “The NRM should secure the buy-in of the law enforcement agencies and for redress and protection mechanisms for journalists who may be victims of harassment or assault.
“The communique issued at the end of the event and made available to BONews Service by Stella Nwofia, IPC Program Manager, read in part that, “there should be special consultation with the National Council of Women Societies, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and Ministry of Women Affairs on the specific dangers and harassment faced by female journalists particularly when on the frontlines.
“That in outlining the mandate of the NRM consideration should be given to investigations into killings, attacks, and ill-treatment of journalists, which must be prompt, effective and impartial, and subject to public scrutiny.
“That there should be sensitization and awareness-raising on the necessity for the NRM.”
They also stated that there should be wide engagement and consultations with stakeholders who may have important roles to play in the proposed NRM, including but not limited to the federal and state governments.
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