Nigerian Guild of Editors Condemns Abduction and Arrest of Journalists
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the escalating abduction and arrest of journalists by security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, under the pretext of enforcing the Cyber Security Act. The NGE warned that such illegal actions threaten press freedom,Daily Trust reports.
The body of media executives and senior editors also highlighted the dangers of allowing parts of Nigeria to fall into the hands of terrorists and bandits. They expressed confidence that the federal government has the capacity to eliminate these threats and ensure peace and security for its citizens.
This statement was issued by NGE President Mr. Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren following their Standing Committee meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend.
ALSO READ: Minimum Wage: Labour Vows To Reject Little Addition To N60,000
“The meeting deliberated on the state of the media, focusing on the increasing abduction and arrest of journalists under the guise of enforcing the Cyber Security Act, and warned of the implications of such illegal actions on press freedom,” the statement read.
The NGE urged security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police, to respect press freedom. They called for a proper understanding of the Cyber Security Act, emphasizing that it was designed to combat cybercrimes, not to persecute journalists performing their legitimate duties in a democracy.
The editors particularly condemned the methods used to abduct journalists, the prolonged detention, and the inhumane treatment they endure, describing these actions as contrary to democratic principles.
“Press freedom is the ability of the media to report news and express opinions without government interference, censorship, or retribution. It is a fundamental human right essential for a healthy democracy, allowing citizens to access accurate information, hold leaders accountable, and participate in informed public discourse,” the statement added.
The NGE also addressed the challenging economic conditions under which the media operates in Nigeria, calling on the federal government to support the media industry with robust economic policies and direct interventions to help it overcome existing challenges.
In commenting on the state of the nation, the Guild congratulated the government on its one year in office and urged it to intensify efforts against insecurity to eliminate terrorists and insurgents causing havoc in some communities. They criticized the high cost of living, exacerbated by harsh economic policies, and called for sustainable interventions to alleviate its impact.
The editors expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Government for providing a conducive environment for their meeting and hoped that the ongoing peace initiatives by the government would be sustained for the benefit of the people and development.
