As Nigeria marked World Press Freedom Day, the National Human Rights Commission called for zero tolerance toward attacks on journalists, warning that suppressing the press threatens democracy.

Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu described a free media as essential to democratic society, stressing that press freedom is a constitutional and fundamental right.

At the same time, the Nigerian Guild of Editors and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project urged the government of Bola Tinubu, alongside state leaders and FCT authorities, to ensure the safety of journalists and address insecurity and rights violations.

Their appeal followed discussions held in Lagos, where concerns over harassment, violence, and intimidation against media practitioners were highlighted.

Meanwhile, Bassey Otu praised journalists for their dedication and role in upholding democratic values, describing them as vital to truth and accountability.

The NHRC reiterated that attacks on journalists weaken public trust and democratic institutions, citing ongoing cases of arrests, assaults, and online harassment.

The commission also condemned killings of journalists and announced efforts to track and document violations nationwide to support accountability.

Ojukwu called on authorities and security agencies to investigate abuses promptly, while urging journalists to maintain professionalism and commitment to truth.

He added that protecting press freedom is a shared responsibility necessary for safeguarding all democratic rights.