The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza by Israeli forces and the harassment of journalists in Nigeria, describing both as grave violations of press freedom and international law.
In a statement issued on Thursday, President of the Guild, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, said: “The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) expresses deep concern over the relentless targeting and killing of journalists in Gaza. We strongly condemn the recent killing of five journalists: Husam al-Masri (Reuters), Mariam Dagga (AP freelance journalist), Mohammad Salama (Al Jazeera), Ahmed Abu Aziz (Middle East Eye), and Moaz Abu Taha, through artillery and missile attacks by Israeli forces.”
The Guild stressed that the attacks amounted to a breach of international conventions. “These heinous acts are a blatant breach of international law, specifically the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocol I, which provide for the protection of journalists covering wars. Targeting and killing journalists in Gaza constitutes a war crime and an unacceptable attempt to impede the work of journalists and conceal the truth from war areas,” the statement said.
Calling for urgent action, the NGE declared: “We demand an immediate cessation of the targeting and killing of journalists in Gaza and other parts of the world, as well as an end to the war in Gaza. We call for thorough investigations into these unfortunate incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable. The international community must rise up to protect press freedom and ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of violence, reprisal, or death.”
The Guild reaffirmed its solidarity with media professionals working under dangerous conditions. “We stand in solidarity with our colleagues in Gaza and around the world, who risk their lives to bring the world the truth. We praise the bravery and dedication of journalists who continue to report from war zones and dangerous areas,” it said.
Turning to developments at home, the editors condemned the arrest and harassment of Nigerian journalists. “The Guild also condemn the recent arrest, harassment, and intimidation of Nigerian journalists, including Azuka Ogujiuba, publisher of Media Room Hub, by the Nigeria Police Force over coverage of a court case. This is a clear attempt to silence journalists performing their lawful duties,” the statement read.
The Guild demanded immediate intervention from the police chief. “We demand that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, halt the harassment and intimidation 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 editors stated.
Reaffirming its stance, the NGE concluded: “We stand with journalists facing intimidation in Nigeria, and we will continue to advocate for the protection of journalists and press freedom.”
Boluwatife Enome
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