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Tag: NIGERIAN GUILD OF EDITORS

  • Editors berate Gov Bago for closing radio Badeggi in Niger State

    Gov Mohammed Bago claims that the radio station was closed because it was inciting the public to violence

    The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the recent order for the closure of Badeggi Radio by Gov. Mohammed Bago of Niger.

    The apex body of editors in Nigeria said in a statement that the governor’s action was a “blatant attack on press freedom and democracy.”

    The statement made available to the Nigerian Anchor in Abuja was signed by the guild ‘s President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh.

    ” This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society where free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” it said.

    The statement said Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees freedom of expression and press freedom.

    According to the Editors, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which Nigeria is signatory to, also guarantees press freedom and freedom of expression

    It added that the governor acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station.

    ” The power to sanction television and radio stations only lies with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach of the Code.

    ” We are happy that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Malam Mohammed Idris, has pointed this out.

    ” This should go beyond observing the anomaly.

    ” The Federal Government should order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station, while investigation is carried out,” it said.

    The statement said arbitrary closure of media houses was a reminder of the dark days of military rule.

    It, however, noted that Bago’s allegation of incitement of violence by the radio station was a serious issue which had to be investigated and proven before any action could be taken.

    ” We urge the media to operate under strict adherence to the code of ethics of journalism, with responsible conduct at the back of the minds of the professionals,” it said.

    The statement called on the authorities to take measures to respect the rights of citizens to access information and express themselves freely.

    ” Badeggi Radio should be reopened while the investigation continues,” it said.

    The guild reiterated that a free and independent press remained essential for a functioning democracy.

    It also demanded that governments at all levels must respect and uphold this fundamental right.

  • Media role crucial in enhancing nation’s security, stability — NGE 

    Media role crucial in enhancing nation’s security, stability — NGE 

    The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) says a nation’s security and stability can be enhanced by leveraging its diversity, with the media playing a crucial role in promoting the goal.

    The NGE said this in a statement on Sunday by its President, Mr Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren.

    Diversity, according to the guild, is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation, and  inclusive governance ensures that all segments of society are represented and included in decision-making processes.

    The NGE emphasised the media’s social responsibility in promoting diversity, tolerance, and understanding, while also highlighting the importance of national security and stability.

    ‘’The media can achieve this by highlighting diverse perspectives and experiences, combating hate speech, misinformation, and stereotypes, and fostering dialogue and understanding among different groups’’, the guild said.

    It announced  ‘’Building A Secure And Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion and The Media” as the theme of its Biennial National Convention in Enugu, from June 26 to June 29.

    The NGE said that the convention would bring together no fewer than 400 editors, including prominent figures such as Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, Publisher of Vanguard; and Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, former Presidential Spokesman.

    Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman/Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY/Arise News Channel, and Dr John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Television, are also expected at the forum.

    The convention will be declared open by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, according to the guild.

    “The Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, will serve as the Chief Host, while Dr. Momoh will chair the convention. Prince Amuka-Pemu, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and Chief Ugochukwu have been assigned roles as Fathers of the Day.

    “The Director-General of the State Security Services (SSS), Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address, titled ‘’Nation’s Security Future: Harnessing Diversity for Peace/Stability and the Media’s Role.

    “The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, will also be at the national convention as Special Guest,” the NGE said.

    It said that the three-day convention would also witness the election of new executives to pilot the affairs of the professional body for the next two years.