By Anthony Otaru
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has renewed its demand for a fresh investigation into the assassination of veteran journalist Dele Giwa, insisting that four decades without justice must not be allowed to turn the case into a permanent symbol of impunity.
“Forty years is a long time to wait for justice. It is an unconscionably long time for a nation that claims to uphold the rule of law,” the Guild said.
It urged relevant authorities to revisit the case, examine credible evidence that may still be available, preserve records and pursue every lawful avenue capable of establishing the truth.
The Guild, however, cautioned against trial by media, stressing that its demand was for a professional and impartial investigation rather than the condemnation of anyone without evidence.
“We are not calling for trial by media. We are not asking anyone to be condemned without evidence,” the NGE said, insisting that the killing of a distinguished journalist and attack on press freedom must not remain unresolved.
The editors’ body said Giwa’s assassination went beyond the killing of an individual, describing it as an attack on the freedom to question authority, expose wrongdoing and hold public officials accountable.
It warned that the failure to resolve the case could send a troubling message to journalists investigating corruption, abuses of power and activities of influential interests.
The NGE also used the anniversary to urge journalists and media organisations to uphold professional standards amid disinformation, political propaganda, economic pressure and the weaponisation of social media.
“Courage without accuracy can become recklessness; independence without ethics can become irresponsibility,” the Guild said.
It called for Giwa’s professional ideals to be taught in journalism schools, preserved in the national historical record and discussed in newsrooms, warning that his memory should not be reduced to annual commemorations without concrete action.
“Remembrance without action risks becoming an elaborate way of accommodating injustice,” the NGE said.
The Guild also commended Newswatch Plus Limited and Ray Ekpu, the surviving member of the original Newswatch quartet, for preserving Giwa’s legacy through the new publication.
