Editors
Abuja, September 16, 2026 (www.crestnewsonline.ng) The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised concerns over the increasing harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists by security agencies.

The Guild, in a statement on Tuesday, warned that such actions could undermine press freedom and legitimate journalistic practice.

Crestnewsonline.ng reports that the statement arose from the Guild’s communique, signed by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, President and General Secretary respectively, issued at the end of its Standing Committee meeting held in Kano.

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

It said it was particularly concerned about the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws in ways that could restrict legitimate journalism.

”Freedom of the press remained a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance. Governments at all levels and members of the public need to respect press freedom.

”They must engage constructively with the media, rather than resorting to threats, intimidation or violence against journalists and media organisations.

“Aggrieved individuals and organisations should channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman established jointly by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), NGE, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP),” the Guild stated.

On the 2027 elections, the editors asked the Federal and State Governments to provide an enabling environment for all political parties and their candidates to campaign freely and fairly.

The NGE specifically urged authorities to allow the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and the airing of campaign slogans, while calling on INEC and other agencies involved in preparations for the elections to ensure that all parties, including the ruling and opposition parties, are treated fairly and without discrimination.

“A level playing field is essential to building public confidence, trust and electoral integrity”.

It advised politicians and political parties to focus their campaigns on issues, shun inflammatory rhetoric and strictly adhere to the rules governing political campaigns as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

The NGE further urged the media to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in reporting, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and facts guiding their coverage.

On the economy, the Guild called on the Federal Government to remain steadfast in implementing its reforms while ensuring that the welfare and well-being of Nigerians remained at the centre of its policies and actions.

It expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads across the country, saying the situation had imposed enormous hardship on 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 commended Nigeria’s security agencies for the successes recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.

It, however, called for sustained and coordinated efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity.

The NGE 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.(www.crestnewsonline.ng)

*Edited by Olawale Lawanson Alabi