Press Freedom, 2027 Elections Top NGE Agenda As Editors Meet In Kano
Press Freedom Takes Centre Stage
THE Nigerian Guild of Editors has called for stronger protection of journalists amid concerns over harassment, intimidation and prosecution by security agencies.
The Guild said the trend could weaken legitimate journalism and undermine press freedom.
The position formed part of a communiqué issued after the Guild’s Standing Committee meeting in Kano and signed by President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh.
Call for Constructive Engagement
The editors urged governments and members of the public to engage the media through lawful and constructive channels.
They cautioned against threats, intimidation and violence against journalists and media organisations.
The Guild also raised concerns about the application of cybercrime legislation and other laws where their use could restrict legitimate journalistic work.
Ombudsman as Alternative to Confrontation
For individuals and organisations dissatisfied with media reports, the NGE recommended the Media Ombudsman as a channel for complaints.
The mechanism was established jointly by NPAN, NGE, NUJ and GOCOP.
The Guild said using established complaint procedures would provide a more constructive way of resolving disputes with the media.
2027 Election Fairness
The editors also turned their attention to the approaching 2027 general elections.
They called on the Federal Government, state governments and electoral authorities to create conditions that would allow political parties and candidates to campaign freely and fairly.
The Guild specifically urged authorities to permit lawful political displays and campaign slogans.
INEC Asked to Treat Parties Equally
The NGE called on INEC and other agencies involved in preparations for the elections to ensure equal treatment for all political parties.
It said the ruling and opposition parties should operate without bias or discrimination.
According to the Guild, a level playing field would help strengthen public confidence, trust and electoral integrity.
The editors also urged political parties to centre their campaigns on issues, avoid inflammatory statements and comply with electoral rules.
Editors Urge Professional Reporting
The Guild acknowledged that the media also carries responsibilities.
It urged journalists and media organisations to uphold professional and ethical standards, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality guiding election and other public-interest reporting.
That emphasis is particularly relevant as the media prepares to cover an increasingly active political environment ahead of 2027.
Roads & Economic Pressure
Beyond media and electoral issues, the NGE raised concerns about Nigeria’s economy and infrastructure.
It urged the Federal Government to sustain its economic reforms while ensuring that Nigerians’ welfare remains central to policy decisions.
The Guild also highlighted the deteriorating state of federal roads.
Call for Urgent Infrastructure Action
According to the editors, poor federal roads have placed additional burdens on motorists, commuters and businesses.
They therefore called for renewed efforts to rehabilitate, reconstruct and construct federal roads across the country.
The Guild said improved road networks would make it easier to move people and goods while supporting economic activity.
Taken together, the Guild’s resolutions focused on three interconnected areas: protecting the space for journalism, strengthening confidence in the 2027 electoral process and addressing infrastructure challenges affecting economic activity.
