Press Freedom Under Siege: A Call for Democratic Vigilance

Dr. Wale Elegbede, president of the Rochester branch of the NAACP, has raised alarm over deteriorating press freedoms in the United States, likening current events to the oppressive regimes he experienced in West Africa. His passionate commentary urges citizens to confront the reality of democracy under threat.

America’s Press Freedom at Risk

Elegbede draws a stark comparison between today’s challenges in the United States and the oppressive military dictatorships he lived under in Nigeria and Togo. He emphasizes that the recent arrest of journalists simply for covering protests signals a troubling trend—an attack on press freedom. This sentiment echoes the words of the late Nigerian musician and activist Fela Kuti, who famously critiqued his own country’s leadership.

According to Elegbede, the ongoing incidents reflect a broader pattern of authoritarian behavior, where truth is criminalized and fear is wielded as a weapon. He cites specific examples of violence against marginalized communities, including racial profiling and police brutality. The recent deaths of individuals like Renée Good and Alex Pretti further illustrate this alarming trend.

“When journalists are arrested for covering the news, democracy is already in retreat,” Elegbede asserts. He highlights how authoritarian regimes share a common script: they intimidate citizens, suppress media, and enact violence against the innocent. Notably, he recalls the fate of journalist Ken Saro-Wiwa, executed under the regime of General Sani Abacha, whose final words, “Lord, take my soul—but the struggle continues,” resonate deeply with today’s challenges.

A Call to Action

Elegbede advocates for collective action against the encroachment of authoritarianism. He believes that human rights cannot be viewed as privileges granted by governments; they are inherent and must be respected unconditionally. His TED Talk, “It Takes a Community to Eradicate Hate,” remains relevant as he calls for individuals to engage actively in the democratic process.

He urges citizens to move from passive observation to active participation, stating, “When people—regardless of party, race, or socioeconomic status—collectively say no, that is how tyranny is stopped.” He emphasizes the importance of holding leaders accountable and highlights the role of established organizations like the NAACP in promoting civil rights through nonviolent action.

Elegbede’s reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democracy. He implores citizens not to remain indifferent: “History is speaking. The question is whether we are listening—and whether we will act.” This call to engagement is crucial for fostering a society that values truth, community, and human dignity.

Dr. Wale Elegbede’s insights are a clarion call for individuals to reclaim their agency in the face of encroaching threats to democracy. As the conversation surrounding press freedom intensifies, it becomes imperative to remember the lessons of history and ensure that the rights of all individuals are upheld.