The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has encouraged the government at all levels to stop utilizing harsh laws to go after journalists. They specifically mentioned the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention, etc) Act.
The guild made this statement to recognize World News Day, which is marked every year on September 28.
The Guild, in a statement issued by its President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, said it was still committed to protecting journalists’ rights, press freedom, and editorial excellence.
The Guild was worried about moves to limit press freedom in the country and said that any move to silence the media would put democracy at risk.
The guild said, “We urge the government at all levels and individuals to stop using repressive laws, such as the Cybercrime Act, to harass and intimidate journalists.”
“We as a group reaffirm our commitment to protecting press freedom and promoting high standards of editorial leadership.”
The NGE praised Nigerian journalists and their colleagues around the world for their commitment to telling the truth even when things get tough.
The guild said, “We salute journalists in Nigeria and around the world who work hard to bring us the truth. We will continue to promote quality journalism and protect journalists’ rights to work freely.”
“We will always stand firm to defend the rights of journalists, promote high ethical standards in our noble profession, and reject any move, in whatever means, to harass and intimidate journalists as well as obstruct journalism..
“We ask journalists to stay away from fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, and to follow the rules of journalism, which include being accurate, fair, objective, and based on facts.”
The Guild told public officials to completely follow the Freedom of Information Act when it comes to access to information.
The statement went on to say, “We urge the government to always respect the Freedom of Information Act by freely giving journalists any information they ask for. This would be in line with the United Nations Universal Day for Access to Information.”
The Guild also asked the public to help journalists find the truth.
The statement said, “Any success in silencing the media would threaten democracy and free speech.”
The Nigerian Guild of Editors sent its best wishes for World News Day to all Nigerians and journalists throughout the world.
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