Edo plans expunging sedition, criminal defamation from its laws

Godwin Obaseki, the governor of Edo state, says he proposing a bill to expunge sedition and criminal defamation from the laws of the state.

He spoke through his Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Andrew Emwanta who represented him at an inaugural lecture, organised by the ‘Bronze FM’,  Benin.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Deepening democracy: Role of the media’ Emwanta said the proposed bill would enhance freedom of speech and make journalists carry out their duties effectively.

“Under the proposed law, the provisions on sedition and criminal defamation were taken out in line with decisions of appellate courts, which align with constitutional provisions on the right to freedom of expression and the press,” he stated.

Chris Isiguzo, the national president of Nigeria Union of Journalists  said, ‘We normally say the judiciary is the last hope of the common man, but the current reality is that the media is now the last hope of the common man.

“The media must be alive to its role as we move forward to the 2023 elections.”