The Nigerian Guild of Editors is calling on government officials at all levels to prioritize addressing the escalating security issues plaguing the country. In a recent communique issued after a Standing Committee Meeting in Enugu, the NGE President, Mr. Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, highlighted the urgent need for increased security measures.
The guild commended the successful release of students from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School in Kaduna State after being held captive by kidnappers for three weeks. They praised the efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser, Governor Uba Sani, and security agencies in securing the students’ safe return.
Additionally, the NGE called on the Federal Government to address the abduction of Segun Olatunji, Editor of FirstNews Newspaper, who was taken from his home by individuals in military attire. The guild emphasized the importance of upholding press freedom and condemned any actions that hinder journalists from carrying out their duty of holding the government accountable.
The editors also expressed concern over the recent ambush and killing of 17 military personnel in Delta State, urging the government to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable. They linked the country’s rising inflation rate to the deteriorating security situation, removal of petrol subsidies, and devaluation of the Naira.
While acknowledging the Central Bank of Nigeria’s efforts to stabilize the Naira’s value, the guild stressed the importance of long-term solutions to economic challenges. They applauded government initiatives aimed at alleviating hardship in the country but emphasized the need for sustainable policies that benefit the populace in the long run.
In light of the challenging security and economic climate, the NGE encouraged journalists to uphold professionalism and truthfulness in their reporting. They urged media practitioners to exercise caution in their coverage to avoid inadvertently fueling criminal activities. The guild commended the resilience of the mass media amidst economic hardships and called for continued dedication to journalistic integrity and national interest.
