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MRA Calls On The Federal Military
Government To Reopen Shut Media Houses
The Media Rights Agenda (MRA) condemns yesterday’s decision
by the Federal Military Government to extend for an unspecified period the
proscription of the newspapers and magazines published by Concord Press
Nigeria Limited, Punch Nigeria Limited and Guardian Newspapers Limited.
The initial proscription of the newspapers and magazines
was an unwarranted and unjustifiable assault on freedom of expression and
the fundamental right of every Nigerian to uncensored information.
The latest decision to extend the ban at the expiration of
the original six-month period is wicked in the extreme and a naked display
of power and arrogance.
Ironically, it is also the clearest indication that the
government is still unsure of itself and is afraid to subject its
programme and policies to critical review. The government unwittingly
betrayed its inability to proffer superior arguments.
It is now a commonly accepted principle globally that
freedom of expression, which protects expressions that are favourable or
inoffensive as well as those that are offensive or shocking, constitutes
one of the most essential elements of a modern society and is necessary
condition for the progress and development of every society.
The government’s attempt to banish unfavourable press
reports, therefore, cannot be in its interest. It will only engender
sycophancy and hasten its downfall.
The MRA calls on the Federal Military Government to
immediately re-open the media houses and restore the right of all
Nigerians to receive ideas and information.
TIVE DENEDO
NATIONAL SECRETARY
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