Counter-Terrorism: Media Has Critical Role in Promoting Human Rights, Rule of Law – NAN Director
Mr Ismail Abdulaziz, Director, Special Duties and Head, Multimedia/Solutions Journalism, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), has highlighted the critical role of the media in promoting human rights and the rule of law in counter-terrorism efforts.
Abdulaziz made the assertion while presenting a paper titled, “Counter-Terrorist, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law: Critical Role of the Media,” at the Friendship Exchange Symposium in Urumqi, Xinjiang, China.
The symposium, held from Sept. 7 to Sept. 9, focused on governance experiences and their international significance.
He said the media had a responsibility to provide accurate, balanced and responsible information while holding security agencies and other authorities accountable.
According to him, the fight against terrorism must be conducted within the framework of human rights and the rule of law.
He said journalists should report terrorism-related issues without sensationalism, misinformation or narratives capable of glorifying terrorists and their activities.
Abdulaziz stressed the need for media practitioners to ensure that their reports did not undermine ongoing security operations or endanger the lives of citizens and security personnel.
He urged journalists to verify information through credible and official sources before publication, especially during crises.
The NAN director said the media should also give adequate attention to the impact of terrorism on victims, displaced persons and affected communities.
He said responsible reporting could promote public understanding, strengthen confidence in security institutions and support efforts toward lasting peace.
Abdulaziz advocated collaboration between media organisations and security agencies to ensure timely access to accurate information during counter-terrorism operations.
He, however, cautioned against the misuse of national security as a justification for suppressing legitimate journalism and public access to information.
He said journalists must be allowed to perform their watchdog role while respecting lawful restrictions designed to protect lives and ongoing operations.
The paper presenter also emphasised the importance of protecting the rights of suspects and ensuring due process in the administration of justice.
He said counter-terrorism measures should be guided by fairness, accountability and respect for fundamental human rights.
Abdulaziz urged journalists to promote narratives that encouraged peace, community resilience and the rejection of violent extremism.
He said the media could contribute to counter-terrorism by highlighting initiatives that addressed the root causes of extremism and supported the rehabilitation and reintegration of affected persons.
He called on media practitioners to embrace solutions journalism by reporting not only terrorist attacks but also successful interventions, recovery efforts and community-led peacebuilding initiatives.
Abdulaziz said the media remained an important partner in the promotion of security, justice and sustainable development.
He urged journalists to uphold professionalism, accuracy and ethical standards in the discharge of their responsibilities.
