Arm yourselves – Ojo tells Nigerian journalists

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The Executive Director of Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Edetaen Ojo, has counselled journalists to arm themselves with the necessary legal expertise to safeguard themselves against legal hazards in light of the growing media assault in Nigeria.

This was said by Ojo in his opening remarks at the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusion, and Accountability (CMEDIA) Project-sponsored two-day workshop in Enugu on “Laws and Regulations Affecting the Media in Nigeria,” which was organised by MRA and funded by the MacArthur Foundation through the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ).

According to him, a journalist’s ability to do their work well rests not just on how well they can tell a story but also on how well-versed they are in the law, particularly as it relates to the media.

Ojo went on to say that journalists who are aware of their legal rights can resist coercion and censorship, as well as demand information from government agencies, other organisations, and officials who are subject to the Freedom of Information Act.

He went on to say that journalists would be better equipped to defend media freedom and oppose unfair laws and rules that limit their liberties if they were aware of the legal framework.

His words: “In a world where the lines between freedom of expression and legal liabilities are often blurred, as journalists, you must arm yourselves not only with facts but also with legal knowledge and understanding, which can be your armor. Understanding the law, therefore, is not just important; it is essential for the pursuit of truth and justice.

“In performing your critical functions, you will frequently find yourself navigating complex legal environments and issues, ranging from using the Freedom of Information Act to seek and obtain information, to defending yourself or your media organizations against defamation lawsuits.

“Knowing the law helps to protect you as a journalist from legal risks. In Nigeria, you could easily face criminal charges brought against you under criminal defamation laws, laws of sedition, or even for violating national security laws.

“Being well-informed about these legal boundaries can help you avoid unnecessary brushes with the law, thereby allowing you to carry out your duties safely and confidently.

“In addition, familiarity with the laws and regulations affecting journalists and the media empowers you to better protect yourself and your sources. Laws around confidential sources, whistleblowers, and data protection can be tricky.

“Understanding these issues ensures that you can safeguard the people you frequently rely on for stories, protect their identities when necessary, and maintain your own credibility and integrity.”

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