The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza by Israeli forces and the harassment of media practitioners in Nigeria, describing both as serious violations of press freedom and international law.
In a statement on Thursday signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild expressed outrage over the killing of five journalists — Husam al-Masri (Reuters), Mariam Dagga (AP freelance), Mohammad Salama (Al Jazeera), Ahmed Abu Aziz (Middle East Eye), and Moaz Abu Taha — through artillery and missile attacks by Israeli forces.
“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 conceal the truth from war areas,” the Guild said.
The editors called for immediate action to stop the attacks. “We demand an end to the targeting and killing of journalists in Gaza and other parts of the world, as well as an end to the war in Gaza. Thorough investigations must be conducted, and those responsible held accountable. The international community must rise up to protect press freedom and ensure journalists can do their work without fear of violence, reprisal, or death,” the statement read.
The NGE also reaffirmed solidarity with journalists operating in dangerous conditions, praising their courage and dedication in reporting from war zones.
Turning to Nigeria, the Guild condemned the arrest and harassment of journalists, including Azuka Ogujiuba, publisher of Media Room Hub, by the police over coverage of a court case. “This is a clear attempt to silence journalists performing their lawful duties,” the editors said.
The Guild urged the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to halt the intimidation of journalists and respect their constitutional rights. It also called on the government and security agencies to uphold press freedom and ensure the media can hold those in authority accountable.
Reaffirming its stance, the NGE declared: “We stand with journalists facing intimidation in Nigeria, and we will continue to advocate for the protection of journalists and press freedom.”
