Editors Demand Review of Cybercrime Act, Condemn Harassment of Journalists

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the misuse of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act by law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, to harass and intimidate journalists, warning that such actions undermine democracy and press freedom.

The NGE made this known in a communique issued at the end of its Standing Committee meeting held in Jos, the capital of Plateau State, and made available to newsmen on Sunday, September 28, 2025.

The Guild vowed to deploy all legal measures to protect journalists and ensure that freedom of expression is not trampled upon.

“The Guild will no longer tolerate this abuse and will use all legal means to ensure the protection of the fundamental human rights of journalists, freedom of the press and freedom of expression,” the communique signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, read.

The editors called for a comprehensive review of the Cybercrime Act to ensure its application is restricted to its original purpose of combating financial fraud, identity theft, and cyberattacks — not silencing the press.

The editors also reminded security agencies of the existence of the Nigerian Press Organisation’s (NPO) Ombudsman process, which provides a credible mechanism for resolving complaints against journalists without resorting to harassment or illegal detention.

“Security agencies should respect this process by encouraging petitioners to approach the Ombudsman or seek legal redress instead of using state apparatus as tools of oppression,” the NGE stated.

The Guild further urged journalists to uphold professionalism and adhere to the NPO Code of Ethics, warning against blackmail and defamatory practices that erode public trust in the media.

On the political front, the NGE expressed concern about what it described as the “increasing excesses” of politicians in both government and opposition.

The editors warned political office holders to focus on governance and proffering solutions to national challenges rather than engaging in personal attacks and name-calling, which, the NGE warned, could inflame tensions and threaten peace.

The editors also reminded all tiers of government — federal, state, and local — to fulfil their responsibilities to citizens by prioritising socio-economic wellbeing and security over premature electioneering.

The Guild urged the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts against banditry, insurgency, kidnappings, and herder-farmer clashes, noting that these security challenges continue to threaten lives, food security, and national stability.

The NGE expressed appreciation to Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang for hosting the meeting and commended his efforts to promote peace and foster cordial relationships among the diverse ethnic groups in the state.

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