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As Nigeria marks the festive season, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize press freedom and intervene in the continued detention of four journalists held at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre since September.
In a statement signed by its President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and released to the press, the NGIJ extended warm greetings to President Tinubu, the government, and all Nigerians, wishing the nation a peaceful and prosperous New Year, 2025. However, the Guild expressed concern over the escalating threats to press freedom in Nigeria, describing it as a serious danger to democracy and good governance.
The detained journalists—Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami—have been accused of cyberstalking in a case involving Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO). The NGIJ described their incarceration as unjust, noting that the journalists were only performing their duty of reporting on matters of public interest, including allegations against GTCO.
“These journalists, who have been remanded for months, are victims of an oppressive system aimed at silencing investigative voices. Their plight represents a broader assault on press freedom, which is essential for transparency, accountability, and democracy,” the NGIJ President said.
The Guild highlighted allegations against GTCO, including fictitious profit declarations, tax evasion, and unethical corporate practices. It expressed disappointment in GTCO’s approach of targeting journalists rather than addressing these serious concerns.
“This suppression of journalists and investigative reporting is a dangerous affront to Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement read.
The NGIJ called on President Tinubu, human rights organizations, civil society, and the international community to act swiftly to secure the release of the detained journalists. It emphasized that press freedom is a collective responsibility and a cornerstone of a thriving democracy.
“The continued incarceration of these journalists is not only a violation of their rights but also sends a chilling message to those seeking to hold the powerful accountable. Suppressing investigative journalism emboldens impunity and undermines transparency,” the statement continued.
As the nation looks forward to the New Year, the Guild reiterated its commitment to exposing corruption, promoting accountability, and advocating for a just and equitable society.
“The festive season reminds us of the shared responsibility to protect the freedoms that underpin our democracy. We must ensure that press freedom thrives as a fundamental pillar of governance and democracy,” the NGIJ President concluded.
The Guild called on all Nigerians to join the fight for a free and fearless press, urging immediate action to protect journalists and uphold the principles of justice, equity, and transparency in the country.
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