The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in collaboration with Hope Behind Bars African Initiative (HBBAI) and the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), hosted a Journalist dialogue on the Unlawful Detention of Human Rights Activists and the Need for Freedom of Peaceful Assembly in Nigeria. The event took place on the 15th of February, 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Dialogue, themed ‘Unlawful Detention of Human Rights Activists and the Need for Freedom of Peaceful Assembly in Nigeria’, convened journalists to address a troubling surge in the unlawful detention of human rights activists, which has posed a significant threat to democratic values and social justice.
The suppression of activists not only undermines the principles of human rights but also hampers the nation’s progress toward a more equitable and just society. The role of the media becomes pivotal in addressing these issues, demanding responsible reporting to shed light on the challenges faced by activists and advocating for the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly. The Journalist Dialogue was explicitly designed to address the Nigerian context, bringing together media professionals to explore solutions and raise awareness on these critical issues collectively.
The Senior Project Manager for the Development Programme at CJID, Ifeanyi Chukwudi, noted that the unlawful detention of human rights activists not only erodes the fundamental principles of justice but also stifles voices advocating for positive change. According to him, “This timely dialogue was put together following the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the rights of activists and journalists and promote a culture of peaceful assembly in Nigeria.” Reflecting on the agenda-setting role of the media, he noted that “through the responsible reporting and advocacy that will follow this event, we can challenge oppressive systems and work towards a society where every individual can exercise their rights freely and without fear of reprisal.”
In her remarks, Bukunmi Akanbi, a Programs Associate of the Conflict, Security, and Human Rights project at CJID, emphasised the need for collaboration between media and CSOs. She stated, “This dialogue was designed to foster collaboration between the media and civil society organisations (CSOs), bridging several gaps which have hindered their effectiveness in handling issues of human rights violations. She expressed hope for increased synergy going forward.
About the Dialogue Discussions
The dialogue covered subjects such as Understanding the Local Context: Current State of Human Rights Activism and Peaceful Assembly In Nigeria, anchored by Taiwo Hassan Adebayo; Legal Framework for the Enforcement of Freedom of Peace Assembly by Funke Adeoye; Leveraging Investigative Reporting for Evidence-based Advocacy on Human Rights by Alfred Akerele; and a story Lab Ideation session by Kunle Adebajo.
These topics were essential in understanding the local context surrounding the unlawful detention of human rights activists and its implications for the nation. In particular, the sessions emphasised the essential role of Nigerian media in advocating for human rights and fostering the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly within the national narrative, which aligns with the journalistic principles of promoting openness and accountability.
It is our hope and belief that the synergy between CSOs and media houses/personnel will drive accountability in the Criminal Justice sector and a more robust conversation on the need for Freedom of Assembly and strategies for upholding human rights.
No one is free unless everyone is free.
