By Adenike Lawal
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), has formed a five-member committee to engage with the Minister of Information, National Assembly, Attorney-General, and other stakeholders to address harmful media laws in Nigeria.
The committee includes prominent figures such as Richard Akinnola, Gbemiga Ogunleye, Martins Oloja, Idris Hamza, and Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren.
In a statement signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Uwugiaren, the Guild expressed concern over the detrimental impact of these laws on press freedom and democracy.
Many of the laws, inherited from colonial rule, limit transparency, accountability, and the ability of journalists to hold power to account, thereby fostering corruption.
Despite the Freedom of Information Act, these laws restrict access to information and inhibit citizens’ ability to participate in democratic processes.
The NGE warns that such legislation undermines public trust in key institutions, centralizes power, and suppresses dissent.
The committee’s goal is to identify and address the threats posed by these laws, promoting good governance and safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic values.
