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 journalistic practice.
The guild made its position known in a communiqué issued in Kano after its Standing Committee meeting and signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh. It expressed particular concern over the alleged use of cybercrime legislation and other laws against journalists while carrying out their professional duties.
The NGE urged governments at all levels to respect press freedom as a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance. It also called on aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman established by the NGE, Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), instead of resorting to threats or intimidation.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the editors called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant agencies to provide a level playing field for all political parties. They also urged politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric, saying a fair electoral environment would strengthen public confidence and electoral integrity.
The guild further expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads, which it said had created hardship for motorists, commuters and businesses. It urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rehabilitate, reconstruct and construct critical roads across the country.
The NGE, however, commended security agencies for their reported successes in combating terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality. It called for sustained and coordinated efforts towards achieving lasting peace, security and national unity.
