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Press Freedom Day: Media Groups Warn Of Growing Threats To Journalistic Work In Nigeria.

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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have called on the Federal Government to strengthen press freedom and provide better protection for journalists across the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The appeal was made during a joint press conference held in Ikeja, Lagos, to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3.

The briefing was led by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Mr. Kolawole Oluwadare, and the Secretary of the NGE, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, who was represented by Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo.

The event focused on the theme “Role of the Media in Promoting People’s Rights, Accountability and Access to Justice in the Context of Growing Insecurity in Nigeria.”

Both organisations stressed that the safety of journalists and the protection of information integrity are essential to peace, security, and democratic stability.

They maintained that any effective strategy to address insecurity and promote peace in Nigeria must include strong support for a free, independent, and diverse media, alongside humanitarian, institutional, and economic interventions.

SERAP and NGE also raised concerns over ongoing violence in parts of the country, including killings, kidnappings, sexual violence, displacement of communities, and destruction of property in states such as Benue, Borno, Kwara, Plateau, and Sokoto.

They noted that thousands of people have reportedly been killed while millions have been displaced, with rural communities frequently targeted and vulnerable groups, especially women and children, suffering the most.

The groups called on federal and state authorities to take proactive steps to prevent further harm, protect communities, investigate human rights violations, prosecute offenders and their sponsors, and ensure justice and compensation for victims.

They further stated that these incidents violate Nigeria’s obligations under the Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

According to them, the humanitarian impact remains severe, with destroyed communities, lost livelihoods, and victims left without adequate support or remedies.

They also reminded authorities of their duty to protect journalists and address insecurity with urgency and diligence.

SERAP and NGE referenced the UNESCO theme for the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, “Shaping a Future of Peace,” noting that a free press is central to peacebuilding and national development.

They warned that weakening independent journalism and civic information systems contributes to governance failures, encourages corruption, undermines accountability, and spreads misinformation.

The groups cited Sections 22 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression and assign the media a watchdog role in governance.

They urged authorities to safeguard civic space, promote responsible journalism, and treat attacks on journalists as serious human rights violations.

They also demanded swift and independent investigations into such attacks, prosecution of offenders, and adequate compensation and rehabilitation for victims.

Finally, they called for greater transparency in security operations, the establishment of public reporting mechanisms, engagement with international human rights experts, and a National Assembly public hearing on insecurity and attacks against journalists.

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WHO Speaks On Ebola Fears, Reveals Number Of People Under Close Monitoring In Nigeria.

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, has announced that Nigeria currently has no Ebola cases following the evacuation of the index patient and her husband to Switzerland.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Reports indicate that the patient was airlifted out of Nigeria aboard a medical air ambulance through the private jet wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

In a statement posted on his X account on Monday, Janabi said Nigeria would continue monitoring 52 contacts, while Switzerland would take responsibility for the patient’s ongoing medical care and monitor her husband.

He disclosed that the evacuation took place earlier in the morning, adding that both the patient and her husband are Swiss citizens.

According to Janabi, the patient was clinically stable following successful treatment by Nigerian medical teams, who managed her through the acute phase of the illness and stabilised her condition before the evacuation.

The WHO regional director commended the Federal Government, healthcare workers, clinicians, emergency responders and other partners for their contributions to Nigeria’s Ebola response.

He said the successful management of the patient demonstrated Africa’s expertise, resilience and leadership in public health, particularly when countries collaborate to tackle health emergencies.

However, Janabi emphasised that the evacuation did not mean vigilance could be relaxed, stressing the importance of continued contact monitoring and other public health response measures.

He reiterated that Nigeria would maintain close surveillance of 52 contacts, while Switzerland would oversee the patient’s continued treatment and monitor the 53rd contact, her husband.

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Man United Crisis: Carrick Speaks Out After Shock Bournemouth Defeat.

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Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has said he does not expect to be sacked within the next 24 hours following his side’s disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The loss at Old Trafford has intensified scrutiny of Carrick as Manchester United continue to struggle with inconsistent performances and results this season.

According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who shared the manager’s comments on X on Sunday, Carrick acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future but maintained that he would continue carrying out his duties as usual.

“I totally understand the situation. I’m not expecting anything in particular, to be honest. I’m carrying on as normal and, you know, I love this place,” he said.

The former Manchester United midfielder also reaffirmed his commitment to the club, insisting that he would continue to act in what he considers the team’s best interests despite the mounting pressure.

Bournemouth’s victory further compounded United’s recent difficulties, marking their third defeat in four home matches and extending their winless run across all competitions to eight games.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other senior club officials are considering possible replacements as they assess Carrick’s future at Old Trafford.

Former Bayern Munich manager Julian Nagelsmann and ex-Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe have reportedly emerged as leading candidates for the position.

However, Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada are expected to make the final recommendation before presenting their preferred candidate to Ratcliffe.

The club has yet to announce any decision regarding Carrick’s future, leaving uncertainty over who will lead the team into their next Premier League fixture against Chelsea.

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“If You Insult Tinubu, I’ll Insult You” – Sunday Igboho Fires Warning At Makinde.

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Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his alleged mockery of President Bola Tinubu.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to reports, Igboho condemned Makinde’s conduct during a public event, describing it as childish and disrespectful to the President.

Makinde had challenged rival presidential candidates to demonstrate their physical stamina after jumping off a stage during a campaign meeting in Akure, Ondo State, on October 22.

The governor made the demonstration at the APM South-West Presidential Campaign Town Hall Meeting held at the Ondo State International Conference Centre, popularly known as The Dome.

While addressing supporters, Makinde said he would focus on candidates’ energy levels and ability to withstand the demands of leadership rather than making age a major issue ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Reacting to the incident, Igboho accused the Oyo governor of making fun of Tinubu and warned that he would respond to anyone who insulted the President.

In a statement on Sunday, the Yoruba Nation activist said Makinde’s actions amounted to disrespect towards the President.

“He was jumping around like a frog and a mad man, insulting Tinubu, saying Tinubu can’t jump like him as if he doesn’t have a father.

“If you insult Tinubu, I will insult you back. Anyone who wants to live long should not mock an elderly person for any reason,” Igboho said.

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