Nigeria's Press Body Urges Fair Play Ahead of 2027 Polls
As campaign season approaches, Nigerian editors warn against harassment and call for non-discriminatory treatment of all political parties.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has issued a stern warning regarding the escalating harassment of journalists by security agencies, asserting that such actions threaten the foundations of press freedom in the country. In a statement released following a standing committee meeting in Kano, the guild emphasized that the use of cybercrime legislation and other statutes to restrict legitimate journalistic practice is incompatible with democratic governance.
Simultaneously, the editors have called on the federal government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to the communiqué signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, equal treatment of ruling and opposition parties is essential for maintaining public confidence and electoral integrity.
Calls for Journalist Safety
The guild expressed deep concern over what it described as increasing intimidation and prosecution of media professionals. The statement urges governments at all levels and the general public to respect the media as a pillar of democracy. Rather than resorting to threats or violence, aggrieved parties are encouraged to channel complaints through the Media Ombudsman, a body established jointly by several major media associations in Nigeria.
This position aligns with broader reports from the GN auto geopolitics/africa: Nigeria elections desk, which has noted a pattern of friction between state security apparatuses and independent newsrooms. The editors argue that constructive engagement, rather than punitive measures, is necessary to sustain accurate reporting and public discourse in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
Ensuring Electoral Integrity
Ahead of the 2027 polls, the NGE has urged INEC to guarantee that all candidates, regardless of party affiliation, can campaign freely. This includes the lawful outdoor display of party symbols and the airing of campaign slogans without discrimination. The guild argues that bias in these areas undermines the credibility of the electoral process and erodes trust in democratic institutions.
Furthermore, the editors have charged political actors to focus their campaigns on substantive issues and to avoid inflammatory rhetoric. They emphasized that adherence to campaign rules is critical for a peaceful transition of power. The guild’s stance reflects a broader desire among civil society groups to see the 2027 cycle marked by professionalism and respect for procedural fairness.
Infrastructure and Economic Concerns
Beyond press and election issues, the statement highlighted the deteriorating condition of federal roads as a source of significant hardship for commuters and businesses. The guild urged the federal government to intensify efforts toward road rehabilitation and reconstruction, arguing that infrastructure maintenance is central to the wellbeing of Nigerians and the success of ongoing economic reforms.
The forward question remains how these calls for fairness and safety will be received by state actors. Observers will watch closely whether INEC implements non-discriminatory campaign regulations and whether security agencies adjust their engagement with the press. The coming months will test the commitment of both the government and political parties to uphold the democratic norms outlined by the Nigerian Guild of Editors.
