The Nigerian Government has strongly denounced attacks on journalists by Israeli security forces in Gaza. Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, voiced this condemnation during a speech at the Extraordinary Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers held in Istanbul, Turkey, on February 24, 2024.
Represented by Ambassador Zayyad Abdul-Salam, the Head of Mission of the Nigerian Embassy in Turkey, Minister Idris emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting the alarming statistics provided by the Committee for the Protection of Journalists. He underscored the importance of upholding press freedom and human rights, stating that journalists should be able to fulfill their duty to inform the public without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence.
Furthermore, Minister Idris urged fellow ministers attending the conference to collaborate in amplifying the voices of journalists documenting the crisis in Palestine. He emphasized the fundamental principles of press freedom, freedom of expression, and the right to information, stressing their significance in upholding democracy and good governance.
Additionally, the Minister called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for a two-state solution to address the crisis, ensuring the rights and sovereignty of both Palestinian and Israeli peoples.
The conflict, which began with an attack by Hamas on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. As the situation continues to unfold, the Nigerian Government stands in solidarity with journalists and civilians affected by the violence in Gaza.
