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 also called on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a communiqué signed by the NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, at the end of its Standing Committee meeting in Kano, the Guild expressed particular concern over the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws in ways that could restrict legitimate journalism.
According to the editors, freedom of the press remains a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance.
The Guild urged governments at all levels and members of the public to respect press freedom and engage constructively with the media rather than resorting to threats, intimidation or violence against journalists and media organisations.
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It advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel their complaints through the Media Ombudsman established jointly by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria, NPAN; Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE; Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ; and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, GOCOP.
NGE Calls for Fair 2027 Elections
On the 2027 general elections, the Guild called on the Federal and state governments to provide an enabling environment for all political parties and their candidates to campaign freely and fairly.
It specifically urged authorities to permit the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and the airing of campaign slogans.
The NGE also called on INEC and other agencies involved in preparations for the elections to treat all political parties, including ruling and opposition parties, fairly and without discrimination.
The Guild said a level playing field was essential to building public confidence, trust and electoral integrity.
It also charged politicians and political parties to focus their campaigns on issues, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and comply strictly with the rules governing political campaigns as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
The editors further urged the media to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in election reporting, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality guiding their coverage.
Editors Raise Concern Over Nigeria’s Roads
On the economy, the NGE called on the Federal Government to remain steadfast in implementing its economic reforms while ensuring that the welfare and well-being of Nigerians remained at the centre of its policies.
The Guild expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads across the country, saying the situation had imposed significant hardship on motorists, commuters and businesses.
It therefore urged the Federal Government to redouble efforts towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of roads to facilitate the movement of people and goods and stimulate economic activities.
NGE Commends Security Agencies
The Standing Committee also commended Nigeria’s security agencies for successes recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.
However, the Guild called for sustained and coordinated efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity.
The editors expressed appreciation to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as the government and people of Kano State, for providing an enabling environment for the meeting.
The NGE reaffirmed that good governance, the welfare of the people, peace, progress and respect for democratic values remain essential pillars of a stable and prosperous society.
