In the case of Deyda Hydara JR. and Anor v. The Gambia (Suit No: ECW/CCJ/APP/30/11 Judgment No: ECW/CCJ/JUD/17/14). The Applicants were nationals of The Gambia, made allegations of violations of freedom of expression against the defendant state amongst other violations. In its judgment, the Court stated as follows: “These provisions, guarantee the right to life and also freedom of expression… A State also will be in breach of international law and treaty obligations, if it fails to protect media practitioners including those critical of the regime. For freedom of expression also includes the freedom to criticize the government and its functionaries, subject to limitations imposed by the domestic laws.”
RIGHT TO COMMENT FREELY ON MATTERS OF PUBLIC INTEREST
The right to comment freely on matters of public interest is one of the fundamental rights of free speech guaranteed to the individual in our Constitution. It is so dear to the Nigerian and of vital importance and relevance to the rule of law which we so dearly treasure for our personal freedom. — Karibe-Whyte,...