By Sar Terver
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the killing of five journalists in Gaza by Israeli forces, describing the act as a war crime and a brazen attempt to silence the press.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild expressed deep concern over what it called the “relentless targeting” of journalists in war-torn Gaza.
Those killed in recent attacks, according to the statement, include Husam al-Masri of Reuters, Mariam Dagga, a freelance journalist with the Associated Press, Mohammad Salama of Al -Jazeera, Ahmed Abu Aziz of Middle East Eye, and independent journalist Moaz Abu Taha.
“The killing of journalists through artillery and missile attacks is a blatant breach of international law, specifically the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocol I, which provide for the protection of journalists covering wars,” the statement read.
The Guild said the attacks not only violated international humanitarian laws but were also a deliberate attempt to block the flow of information from conflict zones.
It also called for an immediate halt to the targeting of journalists and urged the international community to rise in defense of press freedom.
“We demand thorough investigations into these unfortunate incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable,” the editors insisted, adding that the bravery of journalists reporting from dangerous zones should be applauded rather than punished.
Beyond the shores of Gaza, the NGE also expressed worry over what it described as growing clampdowns on the Nigerian press.
It specifically condemned the recent arrest and harassment of Media Room Hub publisher, Azuka Ogujiuba, by the Nigeria Police Force over coverage of a court case.
According to the Guild, the police action amounted to an attempt to silence journalists and undermine their constitutional role of holding those in authority accountable.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, must halt the harassment and intimidation of journalists and respect their constitutional rights,” the statement added.
The NGE stressed that press freedom remained a cornerstone of democracy and urged security agencies and government authorities to protect journalists rather than intimidate them.
“We stand in solidarity with our colleagues in Gaza and around the world, who risk their lives to bring the truth. We also stand with journalists facing intimidation in Nigeria, and we will continue to advocate for their protection,” the Guild assured.
