The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has suspended one of its members, Mr. Steve Osuji, for breaching the confidentiality agreement surrounding an “off-the-record” presentation at its recently concluded 25th Biennial National Convention held in Enugu.
In a joint press statement signed by the Guild’s President, Mr. Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, the NGE disclosed that the suspension stems from Osuji’s decision to publish content from a keynote address that had been explicitly declared “not for publication.”
According to the statement, the Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, delivered a closed-door keynote address to editors and media leaders at the convention under a mutual understanding that the content was confidential and strictly off-the-record.
However, the Guild said, “despite a clear announcement and professional understanding that the address was confidential, Mr. Steve Osuji, a senior journalist and member of the Guild, went ahead to publish an article based on the presentation on his social media platforms.”
The Guild described this as a direct violation of the Nigerian Code of Ethics for Journalists, particularly the provision that mandates respect for off-the-record agreements, which are fundamental to ethical journalism.
“In view of this serious professional misconduct, the Nigerian Guild of Editors has suspended Mr. Osuji from the Guild for a period of one year with immediate effect,” the statement said.
The Guild also issued a formal apology to the Director-General of the SSS and the security agency he represents for any embarrassment caused by the publication of the sensitive remarks.
“This breach undermines the trust placed in the editorial profession and the integrity of our engagements with high-level stakeholders. The Guild is deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism and ensuring that our members adhere strictly to our Code of Ethics,” the statement added.
Mr. Osuji, according to the Guild, will have the opportunity to appeal the disciplinary decision.
Reaffirming its broader mission, the NGE reiterated its commitment to promoting ethical journalism, responsible editorial conduct, and restoring public trust in the media profession.
