CJID Trains Journalists in Yola on Legal Threats to Press Freedom

YOLA —Ojoma Yusuf,Yola

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has trained more than 15 journalists in Adamawa State during the third edition of its Newsroom Engagement Series, aimed at strengthening the capacity of media professionals to navigate legal threats to journalism and press freedom.

The one-day workshop, held in Yola, focused on critical topics such as navigating legal challenges, laws that criminalize journalism, and Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).

Speaking at the event, Mr. Idris Akinbajo, Managing Editor of Premium Times, delivered a presentation titled Operational Strategies for Journalists and Media Organisations to Avoid Legal Repressions.

He stressed the importance of proactive editorial policies, institutional safeguards, and legal literacy for journalists and media houses, warning that non-compliance with regulations—including tax laws can often be exploited by powerful actors to silence critical reporting.

Also addressing participants, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Adamawa State, Idi Ali, commended CJID for organizing the training, describing it as timely and crucial for the safety and professionalism of journalists.

He urged journalists to uphold ethical standards in their daily work to minimize exposure to legal threats and unwarranted attacks.

Participants expressed appreciation to CJID for the initiative, noting that the training had significantly improved their understanding of SLAPPs and other legal risks facing journalists.

They said the knowledge gained would help them better protect themselves and their work from legal intimidation and harassment.