The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the misuse of the Cybercrime Act by security agencies to harass and detain journalists, warning that such actions undermine democracy and violate press freedom in the country.
In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, jointly signed by the Guild’s president, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild expressed deep concern over what it described as a disturbing trend in the abuse of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc). Act by law enforcement agencies, particularly the police.
“The Guild will no longer tolerate this abuse and will use all legal means to ensure the protection of the fundamental human rights of journalists, freedom of the press, and freedom of expression,” the statement said.
The NGE called for an urgent and thorough review of the Cybercrime Act to ensure it is applied strictly for its original purpose—combating financial fraud, identity theft, and attacks on computer systems—and not as a tool for suppressing journalists or curbing legitimate dissent.
The Guild also emphasised the importance of the Ombudsman process instituted by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), noting that it has successfully addressed past ethical breaches in the media.
It urged security agencies to respect this mechanism and direct complainants to it, rather than using law enforcement as an instrument of intimidation.
“Security agencies should encourage complainants to seek redress through the Ombudsman or the courts, rather than resorting to arrests and harassment,” the statement noted.
While defending press freedom, the Guild held journalists to high accountability standards, urging media professionals to adhere strictly to the Code of Ethics approved by the NPO and avoid any acts of blackmail or defamation in their reporting.
The Guild further expressed concern over the inflammatory conduct of political actors—both in government and the opposition—accusing them of prioritising personal attacks and name-calling over meaningful engagement with governance issues.
“Careless talk heats the polity, incites the public, instigates crises, and is capable of breaching the peace and security of the nation. This must stop forthwith,” the editors warned.
The Gild reminded the three tiers of government—federal, state, and local—that their primary responsibility is to deliver socio-economic welfare and ensure security for citizens, rather than prematurely focusing on future elections.
The Guild urged the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to tackle banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and farmer-herder clashes, noting that improved security would enhance food production and promote national stability.
The Guild appreciated Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for hosting the editors and his efforts to foster peace among the state’s diverse ethnic communities.
