The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) has condemned the growing trend of media trials of individuals accused of financial crimes, stressing that such practices undermine the fundamental principle of the Nigerian Constitution which presumes every suspect innocent until proven guilty.
At a press conference held in Abuja yesterday, COCSON’s National Spokesperson, Segun Okeowo, commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its efforts in tackling corruption but expressed concern over the increasing trend of media trials.
“The EFCC must immediately desist from using media trials as a tool for public perception management,” Okeowo said, adding that “Investigations should be carried out professionally and discreetly, while evidence should be tested only in courts of law.”
COCSON also drew attention to the ongoing case involving former Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Nwabuoku Chukwunyere, who has been accused of financial misconduct. While acknowledging the need to hold public officials accountable, COCSON insisted that Nwabuoku, like every other suspect, remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
The coalition urged the media to exercise responsible journalism by ensuring that reports do not portray suspects as criminals before verdicts are reached. It also called on the government and judicial system to strengthen due process, ensuring that cases are concluded swiftly and fairly to avoid prolonged public speculation and unnecessary media persecution.
As noted in a recent article, the Nigerian Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 prohibit media parading of suspects and mug-shot publication, as these practices undermine the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.
““The media should exercise responsible journalism by ensuring that reports do not portray suspects as criminals before verdicts are reached. Sensational headlines and leaks of investigative details should stop.
“The government and judicial system must strengthen due process, ensuring that cases are concluded swiftly and fairly to avoid prolonged public speculation and unnecessary media persecution,” the statement added.
