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 this known in a communiqué issued after its Standing Committee meeting in Kano State on Friday, September 11, 2026.
The communiqué, signed by the NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, said the Guild was particularly concerned about the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws in ways that could restrict legitimate journalism.
It said, “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 Guild called on governments at all levels and members of the public to respect press freedom and engage constructively with the media instead of resorting to threats, intimidation or violence against journalists and media organisations.
It also urged aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman established by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), NGE, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
On the 2027 general elections, the editors called on the Federal and state governments to create an enabling environment for all political parties and candidates to campaign freely and fairly.
The Guild specifically called for the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and airing of campaign slogans.
It also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (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 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,” it said.
According to the Guild, a level playing field would help build public confidence, trust and electoral integrity.
It also called on politicians and political parties to run issue-based campaigns, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and adhere to the rules governing political campaigns.
On the economy, the Guild urged the Federal Government to remain committed to its reforms while keeping the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians at the centre of its policies.
The editors also expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads across the country, saying it had created hardship for motorists, commuters and businesses.
“The Federal Government should redouble its efforts towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of roads to facilitate the free movement of people and goods and stimulate economic activities,” the Guild said.
The NGE commended security agencies for their efforts against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality, but called for sustained and coordinated action to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity.
The Guild also urged the media to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality guiding their reportage.
It reaffirmed that good governance, the welfare of Nigerians, peace, progress and respect for democratic values remain essential to a stable and prosperous society.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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