NGE Slams Law Enforcement Agencies Over Abuse of Cybercrime Act Against Journalists

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the abuse of the Cybercrime Act by law enforcement agents, particularly the police, to harass, intimidate, arrest, and detain journalists. The NGE made this known in a communique issued at the end of its Standing Committee meeting held in Jos, Plateau State, on September 17, 2025.

The Guild resolved to use all legal means to protect the fundamental human rights of journalists, freedom of the press, and freedom of expression. It also called for a thorough review of the Cybercrime Act to ensure its use aligns with its original intention of fighting cybercrime, rather than suppressing press freedom.

The NGE reminded security agencies of the Ombudsman process instituted by the Nigerian Press Organisation, which can address infractions to the Code of Journalism Ethics. It urged journalists to maintain high professionalism and adhere to the Code of Ethics, avoiding blackmail and defamation.

The communique also expressed concerns about the increasing excesses of political actors, calling on them to focus on national issues and governance rather than personal attacks and name-calling. The NGE urged the three tiers of government to prioritize citizens’ socio-economic wellbeing and security, rather than discussing future elections without fulfilling their social contract.

Furthermore, the Guild called on the federal government and security agencies to be more proactive in tackling banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and other vices. It expressed gratitude to Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang for hosting the editors and striving to improve the lives of the people.

The communique was signed by Eze Anaba, President of NGE, and Onuoha Ukeh, General Secretary of NGE, on September 28, 2025.