Court Orders AGF to Reopen Prosecution of Dele Giwa and Other Journalists’ Killers

By Iyojo Ameh

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (AGF) to reopen the investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the murder of Dele Giwa, the founder of Newswatch Magazine, in 1986.

The Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda (MRA) initiated legal action against the AGF to enforce the fundamental rights of media professionals to safety, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and African Charters on Human Rights.

In his ruling, Justice Ekwo emphasized the obligation of the AGF to prosecute and punish the perpetrators of violence against media practitioners in the country.

The court also mandated the investigation and prosecution of the killings of other journalists who lost their lives while carrying out their lawful duties.

Dele Giwa, who was assassinated on October 19, 1986, in his Lagos office via a letter bomb, remains an emblematic figure of press freedom and the dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Justice Ekwo ordered the Federal Government to ensure the adequate protection and safety of journalists, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and international human rights charters. This includes raising awareness and capacity-building among various stakeholders, including journalists, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies, to uphold the safety of media practitioners.

The ruling comes amidst ongoing concerns about the safety and freedom of journalists in Nigeria, with instances of harassment and violence against them being reported.

The judgement serves as a significant step towards ensuring accountability for crimes committed against journalists and reinforcing the importance of press freedom in a democratic society.