United States Consul General Claire Pierangelo has expressed concern
about the introduction of new legislations that muzzle the press in
Nigeria, urging journalists and activists to protect press freedom.
She said though Nigeria had a vibrant democracy and a relatively free
press, the suspension of micro-blogging platform Twitter and new
legislation to check social media use and prosecute offenders would
encroach on human rights.
Pierangelo said the consequences of restricting free speech would
relegate important issues to the background.
To keep the press free, Pierangelo said reporters, editors, media
executives, and civil society representatives must remain vigilant to
protect the right to freedom of expression and press freedom.
She said for the media to function well in its role as the fourth estate of
the realm, it must be both independent and unbiased so it does not end
up being a public relations tool in the government’s hands.
The U.S. Envoy however advocated for responsible reporting and good
journalism.
