The Nigerian Guild of Editors has strongly denounced the alarming trend of journalists being abducted and arrested across the country by security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, under the pretext of enforcing the Cyber Security Act.
The guild cautioned against the severe implications of such unlawful actions on press freedom.
In a press statement issued by its President, Mr. Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, following its Standing Committee meeting in Port Harcourt, the NGE emphasized the peril of allowing certain regions of Nigeria to fall under the control of terrorists and bandits.
They expressed confidence in the federal government’s capability to eradicate these threats and ensure the nation’s peace and security.
“The meeting deliberated on the state of the media with emphasis on the increasing spate of abduction and arrest of journalists in the country – under the guise of enforcing the Cyber Security Act, and warned of the implications of such illegal actions on press freedom,” stated the Guild.
While urging security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police, to refrain from violating press freedom, the NGE clarified that the Cyber Security Act was enacted to combat cybercrimes, not to persecute journalists carrying out their lawful duties in a democracy.
The editors decried the manner in which journalists are abducted, detained for prolonged periods, and subjected to inhumane treatment, labeling it a direct contradiction to democratic principles.
“Press freedom is the ability of the media to report news and express opinion without government interference, censorship, or retribution,” emphasized the editors, highlighting its pivotal role in upholding democracy by providing citizens with accurate information and holding leaders accountable.
Acknowledging the challenging economic environment faced by the media in Nigeria, the NGE called on the Federal Government to implement robust economic policies and interventions to bolster the industry’s resilience amidst existing challenges.
Regarding the nation’s security situation, the Guild commended the government on its one-year anniversary and urged heightened efforts to combat insecurity, particularly in regions plagued by terrorism and insurgency.
Furthermore, the NGE lamented the soaring cost of living exacerbated by harsh economic policies, advocating for sustainable interventions to alleviate its adverse effects.
The Guild expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Government for facilitating a conducive environment for their meeting and hoped for the continuity of peace initiatives for the collective welfare and development of the populace.
