Guild Of Editors Tells FG, INEC To Protect Journalists, Ensure Fair 2027 Polls

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), has called on the federal government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to protect journalists from harassment, intimidation and prosecution and ensure a fair, level playing field for all political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued after the Guild’s Standing Committee meeting in Kano on Friday and signed by its president, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh.

The editors expressed concern over the use of cybercrime legislation and other laws by security agencies in ways that could restrict legitimate journalism, warning that such actions threatened press freedom and democratic governance.

They urged governments at all levels and members of the public to engage constructively with the media rather than resorting to threats, intimidation or violence against journalists and media organisations.

The Guild advised aggrieved individuals and organisations to channel their complaints through the Media Ombudsman established by the Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Nigerian Union of Journalists and Guild of Corporate Online Publishers.

On the 2027 elections, the editors urged the federal and state governments to create an enabling environment for all political parties and candidates to campaign freely and fairly.

They called on authorities to allow the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and airing of campaign slogans, while urging INEC and other agencies involved in the election preparations to treat ruling and opposition parties equally.

The Guild said a level playing field was essential to building public confidence, trust and electoral integrity. It also urged politicians and political parties to run issue-based campaigns, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and comply strictly with campaign rules.

The editors called on the media to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, with fairness, objectivity, accuracy and factuality guiding election coverage.

On the economy, the Guild urged the federal government to remain committed to its reforms while ensuring that the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians remained central to its policies and actions.

It expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of federal roads, saying the situation had imposed hardship on motorists, commuters and businesses. The Guild called for intensified rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of roads to facilitate the movement of people and goods and stimulate economic activity.

The editors commended security agencies for their efforts against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality but called for sustained and coordinated action to achieve lasting peace, security and national unity.

They further appreciated Kano State governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the state government and the people of Kano for hosting the meeting, reaffirming that good governance, public welfare, peace, progress and respect for democratic values were essential to a stable and prosperous society.