The Nigerian Guild of Editors has raised concern over the increasing harassment, intimidation and prosecution of journalists by security agencies, warning that such actions could undermine press freedom and legitimate journalistic practice.

In a communiqué signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh after its Standing Committee meeting in Kano on Friday, the Guild urged governments and members of the public to respect press freedom and engage constructively with the media.

It advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman established by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), NGE, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) rather than resorting to threats or violence against journalists and media organisations.

On the 2027 general elections, the Guild called on the Federal and state governments to provide an enabling environment for political parties and candidates to campaign freely and fairly. The Guild further appeal to the Federal Government to remain committed to its economic reforms while prioritising the welfare of Nigerians.

The Guild also expressed worry over the rising cost of newsprint and other production materials, noting that the development is threatening the survival of many media houses, especially print newspapers.

It called on the Federal Government to intervene by providing tax waivers and other incentives to sustain the media industry and protect jobs.

The editors commended the Kano State Government for hosting the Standing Committee meeting and for its efforts in improving infrastructure and security in the state.

The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to upholding professionalism, ethical standards and the defence of press freedom, while urging journalists across the country to remain steadfast in their watchdog role.

The Guild further urged security agencies to operate within the ambit of the law and to avoid actions that portray Nigeria as hostile to free speech and democratic ideals.

It also called on media owners to prioritize the welfare, safety and training of journalists to enable them discharge their duties effectively in a challenging environment.

The communiqué concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between government, the media and civil society to deepen democracy, promote national cohesion and ensure credible elections in 2027.