EDITORS RECOMMIT TO DEFENCE OF DEMOCRACY, PRESS FREEDOM

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has recommitted itself to creating an enabling and sustainable environment to uphold press freedom and protect of journalists’ rights, in order to ensure the sustainability of democracy and good governance.

Conscious of its constitutional and social responsibility, the professional body of all editors in Nigeria also said that its commitment to professionalism will help shape the narratives, influence public opinion, and help forge a society that thrives on transparency, inclusivity, justice and a system of government that is accountable to the citizens.

The editors stated these at the end of its two-day national biennial convention, which took place in Owerri, the Imo State capital at the weekend.

In a communique signed by its President, Eze Anaba and the General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the editors added that in a rapidly evolving media landscape, where information flows at an exceptional pace, the role of journalism in shaping good governance and democracy has never been more crucial than now.

Examining the role of journalists in the 2023 general elections at the convention which was attended by 400 editors cutting across the print, broadcast and online media, editors recommitted themselves to the watchdog role – in ensuring that public office holders are closely monitored in order to live up to the expectation of the people.

The editors praised Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who declared the elective convention open, for creating a conducive environment for the successful national biennial convention.

The peaceful elective convention saw Eze Anaba, the Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, securing 250 votes to emerge as the new President. He defeated his only opponent Bolaji Adebiyi, Executive Editor, Western Post, who polled 81 votes