NGE Warns Against Harassment Of Journalists, Demands Fairness Ahead Of 2027 Elections

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has warned security agencies against the harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists, saying the trend threatens press freedom and legitimate journalism.

In a communiqué issued after its Standing Committee meeting in Kano on Friday, the Guild expressed concern over the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws to restrict journalism.

The document, signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, urged governments at all levels and members of the public to respect press freedom and engage constructively with the media rather than threaten or attack journalists and media organisations.

The Guild advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to seek redress through the Media Ombudsman established by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria, NGE, Nigerian Union of Journalists and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the editors called on the federal and state governments to provide a fair environment for all political parties and candidates to campaign freely, including through the lawful display of party symbols and airing of campaign slogans.

They also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant agencies to treat ruling and opposition parties equally, saying a level playing field was essential to strengthening public confidence and electoral integrity.

The NGE called on politicians to run issue-based campaigns, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and obey campaign rules, while urging the media to uphold fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality in election coverage.

On the economy, the editors urged the federal government to sustain its reforms while placing the welfare of Nigerians at the centre of its policies.

They expressed concern over the condition of federal roads, saying the situation had imposed hardship on motorists, commuters and businesses and was obstructing economic activity.

The Guild commended security agencies for their efforts against terrorism, banditry and other crimes but called for sustained and coordinated action to secure lasting peace and national unity.

The editors thanked Kano State governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the state government and residents for hosting the meeting and reaffirmed that good governance, peace, progress, public welfare and respect for democratic values were vital to a stable society.