FG Seeks to Evade Accountability, Appeals Court Order on Journalist Protection

LAGOS, January 19, 2026 — In a controversial move, the Federal Government has filed a motion seeking to appeal a Federal High Court judgment that mandated an investigation into attacks on journalists and media practitioners. Nearly two years after the court’s ruling, the Attorney-General of the Federation Olu Fagbemi (SAN) is requesting an extension from the Court of Appeal in Abuja, claiming that the three-month period for lodging an appeal has expired.

The motion, submitted on December 23, 2025, by counsel A.B. Mohammed, seeks to overturn Justice Inyang Ekwo’s decision from February 16, 2024, which ordered the government to take decisive action against perpetrators of violence targeting journalists. This ruling stemmed from a suit by Media Rights Agenda (MRA), represented by human rights lawyer Mojirayo Ogunlana-Nkanga, filed on October 26, 2021. The suit highlighted the government’s failure to protect journalists, many of whom have been murdered while performing their duties.

Justice Ekwo’s ruling underscored the constitutional significance of journalism, stating that the profession is protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression. He ordered the government to implement measures to prevent further attacks and provide effective remedies for victims, emphasizing the need for enhanced training for law enforcement and security officials regarding journalist safety.

The government’s motion lacks clarity on its nearly two-year delay in filing the appeal. It claims to have identified “errors” in the original judgment but has not provided specific details regarding these alleged mistakes. In supporting documentation, litigation officer Kelechi Ohaeri argued that the application is necessary for justice and to uphold the government’s constitutional right to appeal.

As it stands, no hearing date has been set for the motion, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to safeguarding media freedom and accountability in the face of ongoing threats to journalists in Nigeria.