The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised concerns over the increasing harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists by security agencies, warning that such actions could undermine press freedom and legitimate journalism.
Gatekeepers News reports that the guild made its position known in a communiqué issued on Friday in Kano and signed by Eze Anaba, NGE president, and Onuoha Ukeh, general secretary, after its standing committee meeting.
The editors expressed particular concern over the alleged use of cybercrime legislation and other laws by security agencies against journalists carrying out their lawful duties.
“The Guild expresses concern over the increasing violations of press freedom and the harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists by security agencies through the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws that have the potential to undermine legitimate journalistic practice,” the communiqué reads.
The NGE urged governments at all levels to respect press freedom, describing it as a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance.
The guild also called for constructive engagement between the government and the media, urging individuals and organisations with complaints against journalists or media organisations to use established channels rather than resorting to threats or intimidation.
It specifically encouraged aggrieved parties to approach the Media Ombudsman, jointly established by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
2027 election
The editors also called for a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the 2027 general election.
They urged politicians and political parties to focus on issues during their campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
“The Guild urges the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all other agencies involved in preparations for the 2027 general election to ensure a level playing field for all political parties, including the ruling and opposition parties, without bias or discrimination,” the editors said.
According to the NGE, ensuring equal treatment of political parties would strengthen public confidence and trust in the electoral process while promoting electoral integrity.
Concern over federal roads
The guild further expressed concern about what it described as the “deteriorating condition of federal roads across the country”, saying the situation had imposed significant hardship on motorists, commuters and businesses.
It urged the federal government to “redouble its efforts towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction” of critical roads across the country.
According to the editors, improved road infrastructure would facilitate movement and stimulate economic activities.
The NGE, however, commended security agencies for what it described as “successes recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality”.
The association called for “sustained and coordinated efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity”.
