NGE raises alarm over journalist harassment, demands fair 2027 elections

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed concern over the increasing harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists by security agencies, warning that such actions could undermine press freedom and weaken democratic governance.

The Guild also called on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee a level playing field for all political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The editors made the demands in a communiqué issued at the end of their Standing Committee meeting in Kano and signed by the NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh.

Guild condemns threats against journalists

The NGE said it was particularly concerned about the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws in ways that could restrict legitimate journalistic practice.

It maintained 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 journalists and media organisations.

The Guild called for constructive engagement with the media, stressing that threats, intimidation and violence were inappropriate responses to journalistic reports or investigations.

It further advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel their 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).

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The editors urged security agencies and other authorities to ensure that actions taken against journalists did not criminalise legitimate reporting or undermine the media’s constitutional role in holding public institutions accountable.

NGE demands electoral fairness ahead of 2027

On the 2027 elections, the Guild urged the Federal and state governments to provide an enabling environment for all political parties and their candidates to campaign freely and fairly.

It specifically called on authorities to permit the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and the airing of campaign slogans, while urging INEC and other agencies involved in the electoral process to treat ruling and opposition parties fairly and without discrimination.

According to the NGE, a level playing field is essential to building public confidence, trust and electoral integrity.

The Guild also charged political parties and their candidates to focus their campaigns on issues, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and comply with the rules governing political campaigns.

It 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 concerns over economy, roads

On the economy, the Guild called on the Federal Government to remain committed to implementing its 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, saying the situation had created significant hardship for motorists, commuters and businesses.

They therefore urged the government to intensify efforts towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of federal roads to facilitate the movement of people and goods and stimulate economic activities.

Security agencies receive commendation

The NGE 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 Guild expressed appreciation to Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as the government and people of Kano State, for providing an enabling environment for the Standing Committee meeting.

It reaffirmed that good governance, the welfare of the people, peace, progress and respect for democratic values remained essential pillars of a stable and prosperous society.