The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the alleged 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.
NGE, in a statement jointly signed by its president, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, 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 its strict application for its original purpose in combatting financial fraud, identity theft, and attacks on computer systems.
The editors maintained that the legislation must stopped from being used 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 ethical breaches in the media in the past.
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 also charged 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, accusing them of prioritising personal attacks and name-calling over meaningful engagement with governance issues.
“Careless talk heats up 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 Guild reminded the three tiers of government of their primary responsibility in delivering socio-economic welfare and ensuring security for citizens, rather than prematurely focusing on future elections.
On national security, the Guild urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts in tackling banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and farmer-herder clashes, noting that improved security would enhance food production and promote national stability.
Finally, the Guild expressed appreciation to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for hosting the editors and for his efforts in fostering peace among the state’s diverse ethnic communities.
