NGE Demands Fresh Probe into Dele Giwa’s Murder

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has renewed calls for a credible investigation into the assassination of veteran journalist Dele Giwa, warning that 40 years without justice must not become a lasting symbol of impunity in Nigeria.

The Guild made the demand as the country marked the 40th anniversary of Giwa’s death, urging relevant authorities to revisit the case, preserve available records and pursue credible leads capable of establishing the circumstances surrounding his murder.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the NGE described the unresolved killing as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to press freedom, accountability and the rule of law.

It stressed that the passage of time and changes in government should not absolve the state of its responsibility to investigate serious crimes.

The Guild, however, cautioned against trial by media, insisting that its demand was for a credible investigation based on evidence rather than the public condemnation of individuals without proof.

Giwa, co-founder and founding Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine, was killed on October 19, 1986, when a parcel bomb delivered to his residence in Ikeja, Lagos, exploded. He was 39.

His assassination, which occurred during the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida, remains one of the most notorious unresolved attacks on a Nigerian journalist. No one has been brought to justice for the murder.

Before his death, Giwa had established a reputation for bold investigative journalism and incisive reporting on public affairs. His work helped shape Newswatch into an influential publication at a time when journalists faced significant political and security pressures.

The NGE said the killing represented more than the loss of an individual journalist, describing it as an attack on the public’s right to ask questions, expose wrongdoing and hold those in authority accountable.

It warned that leaving the case unresolved could reinforce concerns about the safety of journalists who investigate corruption, scrutinise government actions and report on powerful interests.

The Guild also urged contemporary journalists and editors to protect the profession’s independence, accuracy, fairness and ethical standards amid political pressure, commercial interests, disinformation and the growing misuse of social media.

It called on publishers to defend newsroom integrity, public officials to tolerate scrutiny and security agencies to take threats and attacks against media practitioners seriously.

The renewed demand for justice coincides with commemorative activities marking Giwa’s legacy, including the unveiling of Dele Giwa’s Granite Journalism, a book documenting his writings and featuring tributes from journalists and contemporaries. Veteran journalist Ray Ekpu, the only surviving member of the original Newswatch quartet, edited the publication.

The NGE urged journalism schools and newsrooms to preserve Giwa’s professional legacy and inspire younger practitioners to uphold courage, independence and accountability.

It warned against reducing his memory to annual tributes without meaningful action to resolve the circumstances of his death.

The Guild maintained that the pursuit of justice for Giwa remains inseparable from efforts to protect press freedom and strengthen the rule of law in Nigeria.