… Seeks Divine Intervention for Press Freedom, National Stability
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has extended warm Ramadan greetings to the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the entire Nigerian Muslim Ummah, and Muslims across the world, praying for peace, stability, and national prosperity.
In a statement signed by the President of the Guild, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and made available to journalists on Saturday in Abuja, NGIJ described Ramadan as a sacred period of spiritual reflection, sacrifice, and devotion, urging Muslims to use the opportunity to pray for Nigeria’s progress, unity, and good governance.
The Guild emphasized the importance of turning to God in prayers, especially during challenging times.
The Guild prayed for the leadership of the country, asking Allah (SWT) to grant President Tinubu and all those in positions of authority the wisdom, strength, and sincerity to govern with fairness and justice. It also urged the general public to embrace peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and nation-building, emphasizing that Nigeria’s socioeconomic and political revival requires both collective commitment and divine intervention.
In line with its dedication to press freedom and justice, NGIJ used the blessed month of Ramadan to call on God for divine intervention in the plight of journalists facing persecution for upholding truth and accountability. The Guild specifically raised concern over the incarceration of journalists currently languishing in the Ikoyi Correctional Centre over a Cyberstalking case involving GTCO and its Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Segun Agbaje.
The Guild decried the continuous clampdown on press freedom, describing it as a threat to democracy and fundamental human rights. It urged the Nigerian government, stakeholders, and the judiciary to protect journalists from undue harassment, intimidation, and wrongful imprisonment.
The Guild urged well-meaning Nigerians, legal advocates, and human rights defenders to speak up against the suppression of investigative journalism, which remains a vital pillar of democracy and accountability as well as coming to the rescue and freedom of the incarcerated Journalists.
NGIJ called on Muslims to use Ramadan as a time to strengthen their faith, renew their commitment to truth and justice, and contribute positively to national development. The Guild reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ethical journalism, social justice, and upholding the principles of free speech and investigative reporting.
As Nigeria navigates economic, security, and political challenges, NGIJ prayed for God’s mercy and devine intervention.
The Guild concluded by praying for the Muslim Ummah, asking Allah (SWT) to grant all believers good health, spiritual fulfillment, and abundant rewards during this holy month of Ramadan.