WSCIJ Report: A Disturbing 90% of Journalist Attacks Occur on Duty

WSCIJ Report: A Disturbing 90% of Journalist Attacks Occur on Duty

A groundbreaking research study titled “Journalism and Civic Space in 2023,” conducted by the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), has revealed that a staggering 90% of attacks on journalists happen while they are fulfilling their professional duties.

The findings were presented by Motunrayo Alaka, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of WSCIJ, during the second edition of the Civic Space Guard Conference. This year’s theme, “AI, Free Press, and Civic Space: Tools, Challenges, and Future of Investigative Reporting,” attracted attention from industry stakeholders, policymakers, and civil society members. The conference took place on Wednesday in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Alaka expressed serious concern over the report’s implications for Nigeria’s democracy, indicating that the alarming statistics signify a trend that jeopardizes the safety of journalists and the fundamental principles of free expression.

“Shockingly, 90% of attacks on journalists occur while they’re executing their responsibilities. This statistic means that nine out of ten times, journalists are subjected to harassment simply for doing their jobs,” she stated, adding that the pervasive risks make journalists an endangered group within society. “To cultivate a thriving democracy, it is imperative that journalists operate in an environment of safety and confidence. They should see security agencies as allies, reassured they will be protected as they carry out their duties.”

The research involved a meticulous analysis of 134 published stories from 32 media organizations, focusing on gender dynamics, state and non-state actors, as well as the broader implications of these incidents on both journalists and citizens. The study also examined the prevalence of civic space violations throughout the year, revealing a concerning pattern of increased non-violent attacks during election periods, despite alarmingly high levels of violent incidents.

“Our findings highlight that while 36% of the reported incidents were violent, a significant 64% were categorized as non-violent. Notably, February and March of 2023 saw alarming spikes in civic space infringements largely attributed to the electoral process,” Alaka explained. “Types of violations include threats, intimidation, and harassment, with physical assaults involved in 35% of violent incidents. Disturbingly, 20% of these violence-related cases—one in five—led to fatalities.”

The report identified politicians and police as the primary perpetrators of civic infringements, a revelation that demands urgent attention. Alaka pointed out, “An alarming 70% of civic space violations were attributed to actions by politicians and police officers. While we acknowledge some limitations in our study—including challenges in covering broadcast media—the realities we unearth are critical.”

She emphasized the dire need for open dialogues surrounding mutual respect between media professionals and security agencies like the police. “These issues are not mere data points; they are serious matters that warrant thoughtful consideration. We hope this report serves as a catalyst for constructive conversations aimed at driving meaningful change in our civic space,” Alaka concluded.

The WSCIJ report underscores the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to ensure the safety of journalists and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

By PRNigeria