The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF), which includes Media Rights Agenda (MRA), has commended a Federal High Court judgment discharging and acquitting the publisher of Cross River Watch newspaper, Mr. Agba Jalingo, who was charged with criminal defamation and cyberstalking at the behest of Mrs Elizebeth Alami Ayade, a sister-in-law to the former Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ban Ayade.
Mrs. Ayade, wife of the younger brother of the former Governor of Cross River State approached the court with a law suit alleging defamation over a Facebook post made by Mr. Jalingo alleging that she was involved in exam malpractice in the Nigerian Law school, Abuja, which led to the arrest and subsequent arraignment of the journalist under the Cybercrimes Act.
Hon. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court after hearing from both parties ruled in favour of Agba Jalingo, dismissing the charges brought against him by Mrs. Ayade.
The CWPPF, in a statement issued by its secretariat, applauded the court for standing for justice and the rule of law and also for the decision to discharge and acquit the journalist. The Coalition stated that this further reiterates its coalition that journalists, when they report responsibly, should be able to do so without fear of legal repercussions. In emphasizing these, the Coalition said the court’s ruling is a victory for press freedom and the right to freedom of expression as it highlights the importance of a free press in informing the public and holding powerful interests to account. CWPPF said: “This, from all indications, ensures transparency and accountability in governance.”
CWPPF equally commended Mr. Jalingo for his courage and dedication to his profession even in the face of legal impediments and that his vindication is a testament to his commitment to journalistic ethics and standards.
The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) is a group of 28 media and civil society organisations committed to upholding democracy and good governance by protecting the ethos of whistleblowing, freedom of expression and press freedom.
