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.
The NGE made the demands in a communiqué signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, at the end of its Standing Committee meeting in Kano.
The editors expressed particular concern over the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws in ways that could restrict legitimate journalism.
They stressed that freedom of the press remained a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance, urging governments at all levels and members of the public to respect press freedom.
The Guild called for constructive engagement with the media rather than threats, intimidation or violence against journalists and media organisations.
It also advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman established jointly by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), NGE, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
NGE Demands Fairness Ahead of 2027 Elections
On the 2027 elections, the editors urged the Federal and state governments to create an enabling environment for all political parties and their candidates to campaign freely and fairly.
The Guild called on authorities to permit the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and the airing of campaign slogans.
It also urged INEC and other agencies involved in preparations for the elections to treat all political parties, including ruling and opposition parties, fairly and without discrimination.
According to the NGE, providing a level playing field would help build public confidence, strengthen trust and promote electoral integrity.
The editors further charged politicians and political parties to focus their campaigns on issues, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and comply with the rules governing political campaigns.
The Guild also urged media organisations to maintain the highest professional and ethical standards, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality guiding their coverage of the elections.
NGE Expresses Concern Over Federal Roads
On the economy, the Guild urged the Federal Government to remain committed to its ongoing reforms while ensuring that the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians remained central to its policies.
The editors expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads across the country, noting that the situation had created significant hardship for motorists, commuters and businesses.
They called for increased efforts towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of federal roads to facilitate the movement of people and goods and stimulate economic activities.
Editors Commend Security Agencies
The Guild commended Nigeria’s security agencies for successes recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.
However, it called for sustained and coordinated efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity.
The Standing Committee also expressed appreciation to 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 citizens, peace, progress and respect for democratic values remained essential pillars of a stable and prosperous society.
