The attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), advised the media to adopt ethical journalism standards to give hope to the common man.
Mr Fagbemi, who was represented by Prof. Olukayode Olatoke, gave this advice on Friday at the Gavel International Annual Lecture in Ikeja.
He spoke on the theme: “The Judiciary as The Last Hope of The Common Man, Media and Legal Perspective.”
Mr Fagbemi, in his keynote address, said the fight for a judiciary that would truly serve as the last hope of a common man, was one that both the media and the judiciary must undertake together.
According to him, the media has a crucial role to play to hold the judiciary and government accountable.
“Media should keep educating the public on their rights and amplifying the voices of the oppressed.
“Media must ensure that the scale of justice remains balanced and ensure adequate reportage of positive news.
“Regardless of the need to publicise sensational news, we must always remember that we are first of all, Nigerians.
“It must be conceded that the media is a powerful tool, as it informs, educates and entertains, but when misused, it can harm our nation’s cohesion, stability, and progress,” he said.
Mr Fagbemi, therefore, advised that the power of the media be used to address issues constructively.
He added that the media should adopt ethical journalism standards, balance their reports and avoid clickbait headlines.”
He also said there was need for the media to invest in fact-checking, promote constructive content and engage in capacity building.
According to him, judiciary stands as a pillar of democracy and its strength is a measure of our commitment to justice and equality.
“While much has been achieved, there is still work to be done and together with the judiciary, the executive, the media and the citizens, we can build a Nigeria where every individual, regardless of status or station, can find justice, hope, and dignity.
“The media has the power to disrupt or to unite.
“Let us urge our journalists and media organisations to rise to the occasion, fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and building a stronger, more unified Nigeria,” the AGF said.
Also, a member of the Body of Benchers, Dele Adesina (SAN), submitted that the judiciary was the last hope of not only the common man, but that of the uncommon, big and small, old and young, educated or illiterate, rich or poor as well as government and the governed.
Mr Adesina, former pro-chancellor and chairman Governing Counsel, Ekiti State University, also said for every single case where justice appeared not to have been served, there were thousands of cases where justice have not only been done but have seen to be done.
He condemned violent attack on the judges and justices of the courts.
“The sustained blackmailing on the entire judicial system at the moment is wrong and same cannot help this nation or indeed anybody.
“Please understand me very well that I do not oppose constructive criticism of the judiciary, neither do I oppose clear and honest appraisal of the judiciary but the criticism of the nature and the kind we are hearing and reading about particularly in recent times are destructive and this will not help our justice system.
“It is my belief that we need to commit to self-examination that will culminate in self-realisation of our ultimate destination.
“With regards to the media and the judiciary, the golden rule of practice I submit, is that the media must not make any comment which will tend to prejudice a fair trial,” he said.