THE Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the increasing misuse of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act by law enforcement agents, particularly the police, to harass, intimidate, and unlawfully detain journalists across the country.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its Standing Committee meeting held in Jos, Plateau State, on September 17, 2025 received by News Point Nigeria, the Guild described such actions as a deliberate assault on press freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, vowing to resist them with every legal tool available.
The NGE, the foremost professional body of editors in Nigeria spanning print, broadcast, online, and news agencies, emphasized that the Cybercrime Act was originally enacted to fight cyber-related offenses such as financial fraud, identity theft, and attacks on digital systems not to gag journalists performing their constitutional role.
The Guild urged security agencies to respect the Ombudsman process created by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), which has successfully addressed several breaches of the Code of Journalism Ethics in the past. Rather than weaponising security institutions, the NGE said aggrieved individuals should approach the Ombudsman or seek legal redress through the courts.
While demanding an end to intimidation of journalists, the Guild equally reminded its members to uphold the highest professional standards by strictly adhering to the Code of Ethics. It warned against blackmail, defamation, or misuse of the media, stressing that only ethical journalism can guarantee credibility and public trust.
The editors also expressed concern about the rising intolerance and personal attacks among politicians in government and the opposition. According to the communiqué, name-calling, careless utterances, and personal vendettas only serve to heat up the polity, instigate crises, and undermine peace and security. The Guild urged political actors to focus on governance, policy debates, and solutions to Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
The NGE reminded all three tiers of government that the essence of leadership lies in ensuring citizens’ socio-economic well-being and security. It warned political office holders to desist from premature campaigns for the 2027 elections when their social contract in the current term remains unfulfilled.
On the nation’s deteriorating security, the editors called on the federal government and security agencies to step up efforts against banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and farmer-herder clashes.
The communiqué stressed that securing lives and property would not only strengthen national stability but also boost food production and foster a safer environment for citizens.
The Guild also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang for hosting the meeting and working toward peace, unity, and development in the state.
The communiqué was jointly signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh.
