Democracy Day: Buhari promises to respect press freedom, rule of law

Mr Buhari also said his administration appreciates the role of the media in Nigeria, despite the media’s imperfect relationship with successive governments.

“I must admit that the relationship between the media and successive governments has not always been perfect,” the Nigerian president said in a televised broadcast to mark the annual Democracy Day.

“But there is no denying the fact that you have been an effective watchdog for the society especially in holding public officers to account. It is sad that in the course of securing our democracy, some of your colleagues have had to pay a heavy price,” he said.

Mr Buhari also said his administration is focused on guaranteeing press freedom and upholding the rule of law.

The Buhari government has been criticised for serially disobeying court orders and violating the rule of law.