JUST IN: Justice for Dele Giwa As Court Orders Re-investigation of 1986 Assassination

In a landmark decision, a Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to reopen the investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the 1986 assassination of journalist Dele Giwa. This long-awaited ruling brings renewed hope for justice in a case that has remained unsolved for nearly four decades.

Giwa, the founder of Newswatch magazine, was killed on October 19, 1986, by a letter bomb delivered to his Lagos office. His death sent shockwaves through the nation and remains a stark symbol of the dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria.

Delivering his judgment, Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo stated that the AGF “is under obligation to prosecute and penalize killers of media practitioners in the country.” This declaration serves as a powerful message emphasizing the vital role of journalists in a democracy and the responsibility of the government to ensure their safety and protection.

The court’s order extends beyond Giwa’s case, mandating the investigation and prosecution of all “killings of other journalists in the discharge of their lawful duties.” This broader ruling sets a significant precedent for holding perpetrators accountable for acts of violence against the press.

This decision stems from a lawsuit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda (MRA) against the AGF. The MRA argued for the enforcement of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and African Charters on Human Rights, specifically regarding the safety of journalists.

Justice Ekwo’s judgment emphasizes the government’s obligation to uphold these rights, citing specific articles from the Constitution and Charters. This reinforces the legal basis for demanding protection for journalists and holding authorities accountable for their failures.

While the ruling marks a significant victory for press freedom advocates, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges ahead. Successfully reopening the Giwa case and bringing the perpetrators to justice will require dedicated effort and commitment from the AGF’s office.

This court decision serves as a beacon of hope for justice in the long-fought case of Dele Giwa and a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting journalists who strive to uphold truth and hold power accountable. However, the true measure of its impact will lie in the concrete actions taken by the authorities to ensure it translates into tangible progress towards achieving justice for Giwa and all journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.