Mr. Steve Osuji has been suspended from the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the organisation claimed, for breaking the “off-the-record” clause of the Nigerian Code of Ethics for Journalists.
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According to a joint press statement signed by the President, Mr. Eze Anaba, and the General Secretary, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, the 25th Biennial National Convention keynote speech given by Mr. Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the State Security Service, was agreed upon to be off-the-record and not published. The speech was given in Enugu.
The Guild raised concerns that “a senior journalist and member of the Guild, Mr. Steve Osuji, published an article based on the presentation on his social media platforms, breaching our Code of Ethics on confidentiality,” even though the agreement had already been announced.
An official statement from the organisation read: “Our professional body has announced the suspension of Mr. Osuji from our body for one year, effective immediately.”
While reiterating its “dedication to maintaining the highest standards of journalism and ensuring that our members adhere to our code of ethics,” the NGE extended an apology to the Director-General of the SSS and the institution he represents for the shame created by Osuji’s behaviour. Mr. Osuji will have the chance to challenge this ruling, according to the NGE.