The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the arrest of Azuka Ogujiuba, publisher of Media Room Hub, by the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement signed on Thursday by its president, Eze Anaba, and general secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the guild described the arrest, harassment, and intimidation of Ogujiuba — and other journalists covering court cases — as an attempt to silence the media.
The NGE called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately halt the harassment of journalists and respect their constitutional rights.
“We urge the government and security agencies to uphold press freedom and respect the media’s constitutional right to hold those in authority accountable,” the guild said.
The editors also expressed concern over the safety of journalists globally, citing the killings of five journalists in Gaza by Israeli forces. According to the guild, targeting journalists in conflict zones is a violation of international law, and it called for thorough investigations and accountability.
Reaffirming its support for journalists within and outside Nigeria, the NGE vowed to continue advocating for press freedom, as well as the protection and safety of journalists.