Attacks on journalists will not be tolerated –Fatima Abubakar
The newly appointed Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has cautioned individuals, especially politically exposed persons that attacks on journalists in the country would not be countenanced.
She stressed that no politically exposed persons especially those in government would not be shielded when they attack a journalist adding that the Ministry of Information would pursue perpetrators to ensure that they face the full rigours of the law.
Fatima Abubakar noted that journalists, like frontline health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, require all the necessary safety measures that ensure their safety.
The Minister who outlined some safety measures for journalists by her Ministry during a working visit to Zed Multimedia on May 22, 2024, said the Ministry of Information is currently implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes preventative measures and swift response mechanisms to address threats or attacks against journalists.
The minister said preventive measures such as the Coordinated Mechanism on the Safety of Journalists aim to deter potential attackers by ensuring they face stiff punishment.
She underscored the vital role journalists play in democracy and stressed the need to provide them with adequate protection, drawing parallels to frontline workers in other sectors.
“Our goal is to create a deterrent effect by ensuring that those who threaten or attack journalists face significant consequences,”
She explained that “through this mechanism, we aim to instill confidence in journalists to report incidents promptly, knowing that justice will be swiftly delivered.”
The Minister noted further that the Ministry of Information has also prioritized awareness and training programs to empower journalists to identify and mitigate risks effectively. She highlighted the importance of educating journalists on conflict resolution and situational awareness, particularly in high-tension environments like election coverage.
“Our training programs are designed to equip journalists with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate challenging situations safely,”
She stressed that. “By raising awareness and providing practical guidance, we can enhance journalists’ ability to protect themselves while on assignment.”
Furthermore, the Ministry has forged partnerships with key stakeholders, including the judiciary and security agencies, to streamline processes for reporting and addressing threats against journalists stressing the importance of collaboration in ensuring swift and effective responses to incidents.
“We’ve established clear protocols for journalists to report threats or attacks, and we’re working closely with the relevant authorities to expedite investigations and prosecutions,” Minister Abubakar stated.
“Our goal is to create a coordinated approach that ensures journalists receive the support and protection they need.”
In addition to preventative measures, she noted that the Ministry is committed to providing accessible avenues for justice, particularly for journalists in remote areas with limited resources highlighting efforts to establish a network of support that extends to every corner of the country.
“Our blueprint ensures that every journalist, regardless of their location or financial constraints, can access the necessary support and legal assistance,”
