No Journalist Jailed for Responsible Reporting Under Tinubu’s Government, Says Information Minister

• Minister Idris assures no journalist imprisoned for responsible journalism under Tinubu administration, emphasizing media freedom protection
• Analysts express skepticism over responsible journalism claim citing journalist detentions, contrary to minister’s affirmation on press freedom

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has affirmed that no journalist has faced imprisonment for practising responsible journalism under Bola Tinubu’s administration. He emphasized that the media enjoys significant freedom in Nigeria, with the government committed to safeguarding journalists’ interests and upholding press freedom.

Addressing questions during a press briefing organized by his ministry in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management and UNESCO to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day, the minister reiterated the government’s stance on press freedom.

However, some analysts have expressed scepticism regarding “responsible journalism,” pointing to recent incidents suggesting abuse of power within the Tinubu administration.

They highlighted the prolonged detention of journalist Segun Olatunji, Editor of FirstNews, and the continued incarceration of Chika Victor Ibezim, brother of the owner of Reportera News. These cases seemingly contradict the minister’s assertion.

Olatunji was reportedly held for 14 days over an article deemed critical of the Chief of Defence Intelligence. Ibezim has been detained for over eight months following a publication linking former Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola to a court judgment.

In response, the information minister defended his position, asserting that disseminating false information and misinformation constitutes irresponsible journalism, distinct from genuine expression of press freedom.

He emphasized President Tinubu’s recognition of the media’s role in enlightening and informing the public, underscoring the importance of credible and timely information in promoting transparency and accountability.

The minister’s remarks underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring press freedom while urging journalists to uphold ethical standards in their reporting.