By EricJames Ochigbo
Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) has cautioned prosecuting agencies in the country against engaging in media trial of suspects to preserve their human dignity while undergoing investigation.
National Spokesperson for the coalition, Mr Segun Okeowo, made the call at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
Okeowo said that the coalition was deeply concerned about the increasing trend of media trials, where individuals under investigation were subjected to public ridicule and character assassination before they could have their day in the court.
According to him, such practice is not only unethical but also contradicts the fundamental principle of the Nigerian constitution which presumes every suspect innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
He said that publicly tarnishing the reputations of suspects before the conclusion of due legal processes had far-reaching consequences.
“It undermines fair trial rights, creates bias in public opinion and potentially damages the careers and reputations of innocent individuals.
“It also weakens the confidence in the judicial system.
“While we firmly uphold the rule of law and believe that anyone found guilty of corruption must face the full weight of justice, we insist that such proceedings must be handled strictly within the legal frameworks, without sensationalism or media harassment,” he said.
Okeowo said that the coalition had taken particular notice of the ongoing case involving a former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, who was accused of financial misconduct.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Nwabuoku on a nine-count amended charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N868.4 million.
The spokesman said that Nwabuoku had meritoriously served Nigeria in various capacities and, therefore, deserved to be treated with dignity.
According to him, accusations do not amount to convictions, and until a court establishes guilt, Nwabuoku, like every other suspect, remains innocent, adding that this basic constitutional right must not be violated.
Okeowo urged EFCC to desist from using media trials as a tool for public perception management.
“The fight against corruption must not be tainted by procedural injustices. Every Nigerian, regardless of their position or past service, is entitled to due process.
“While we encourage the EFCC to continue its fight against corruption, it must do so within the ambit of the law and with respect for human dignity,” he said.
He said that investigations should be carried out professionally and discreetly, while evidence should also be tested only in the court.
The spokesman, however, commended EFCC for its continuous efforts at tackling corruption and financial crimes in the country.
According to him, the commission has played pivotal roles in investigating and bringing suspected financial offenders to book, which is a crucial step to maintaining transparency and accountability.
He also urged the media to exercise responsible journalism by ensuring that their reports did not portray suspects as criminals before verdicts were reached, stating that sensational headlines and leakage of investigative details should stop.
Okeowo urged the government and the judiciary to strengthen due process in order to ensure that cases were concluded swiftly and fairly to avoid prolonged public speculations and unnecessary media persecution. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)