Government Must Prioritise Journalists’ Safety Ahead of 2027 Elections

Journalist and press freedom advocate Livinus Chibuike Victor has called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to put adequate measures in place to protect journalists and media workers ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Victor stressed that journalists will play a critical role in informing Nigerians, documenting the electoral process and reporting events from polling units and other sensitive locations.

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He noted that journalists must be allowed to perform these duties without fear of harassment, intimidation, assault, unlawful detention or obstruction.

He urged the government, INEC, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to establish clear safety protocols for journalists, provide rapid-response mechanisms for emergencies and ensure that security personnel understand and respect the rights of accredited media professionals.

According to Victor, protecting journalists is not a favour to the media; it is an essential part of protecting democracy and the public’s right to credible information.

He called on all political parties, candidates, security agencies and other stakeholders to work with media organisations and journalists’ associations ahead of the elections to create a safe environment for journalists to carry out their constitutional and professional responsibilities.