A prominent Nigerian journalist, Steve Osuji, has been suspended from the Nigerian Guild of Editors for a year due to a breach of the organization’s Code of Ethics. The suspension follows Osuji’s publication of an article based on a keynote address delivered by the Director-General of the State Security Service, Adeola Ajayi, at the Guild’s 25th Biennial National Convention in Enugu. The address was explicitly stated to be “off-the-record,” meaning it was not intended for publication.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors, in a press statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, expressed its disappointment and concern over Osuji’s actions. Despite the clear agreement that the keynote address was not to be published, Osuji chose to share the information on his social media platforms, thereby violating the confidentiality provision of the Code of Ethics. This move has been seen as a serious breach of professional misconduct, prompting the Guild to take swift and decisive action.
The Guild’s decision to suspend Osuji is a clear indication of its commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism and ensuring that its members adhere to the ethical codes that govern their profession. In addition to the suspension, the Guild has also extended an apology to the Director-General of the State Security Service and the institution he represents for the embarrassment caused by Osuji’s actions. This apology serves as a gesture of goodwill and a reaffirmation of the Guild’s dedication to maintaining professional integrity and respecting the confidentiality agreements that are essential to its members’ work.
Osuji has been given the opportunity to appeal the decision, allowing him to present his case and potentially overturn the suspension. This provision underscores the Guild’s commitment to fairness and due process, ensuring that its members are treated justly and have the chance to defend themselves against allegations of misconduct. The suspension of Steve Osuji serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to ethical standards in journalism and the consequences that can result from failing to do so.
