The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep concern over the relentless targeting and killing of journalists in Gaza and elsewhere around the world.
The umbrella body of Nigerian editors strongly condemned 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.
in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, President and Secretary, respectively, the Guild said these 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.
According to the NGE, “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.
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”.
It called 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.
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”.
The Guild also condemned 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.
It said Ogunjiuba’s arrest was a clear attempt to silence journalists performing their lawful duties. “We demand that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, halt the harassment and intimidation of journalists and respect their constitutional rights”, it said.
It urged the government and security agencies to uphold press freedom and respect the media’s constitutional right to hold those in authority accountable.
“We stand with journalists facing intimidation in Nigeria, and we will continue to advocate for the protection of journalists and press freedom”, the NGE said.
