Fresh controversy has erupted over the latest directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, as opposition voices, civil society organisations, and international rights groups intensify criticism, warning of a looming clampdown on press freedom ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Leading the charge, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the directive as a calculated attempt to muzzle the media and restrict free expression, particularly during a politically sensitive period.
Atiku, in a strongly worded reaction, said the timing and tone of the directive raise serious concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic principles. He argued that the repeated issuance of restrictive guidelines by the NBC during election cycles reflects a deeper agenda aimed at controlling public narratives rather than promoting ethical journalism.
“The code of conduct advisory is yet another troubling attempt to shrink the space for free expression,” Atiku stated, adding that Nigeria’s media industry has earned global respect for its resilience and professionalism.
He maintained that ethical standards in journalism should not be selectively enforced, warning that such directives risk undermining the credibility of the electoral process if perceived as tools for political control.
Similarly, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately intervene by ordering the withdrawal of the NBC’s directive, which it described as unlawful, vague, and unconstitutional.
In a formal letter addressed to the President, SERAP argued that the directive amounts to prior censorship and poses a direct threat to the constitutional right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Nigerian law.
The organisation specifically faulted provisions in the NBC notice that caution broadcasters against expressing personal opinions, intimidating guests, or failing to maintain neutrality, noting that such terms are subjective and open to abuse.
According to SERAP, the broad interpretation of these provisions could create a chilling effect on journalists, forcing self censorship and limiting robust public discourse at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The NBC, however, has defended its position, insisting that the directive is necessary to address what it described as growing breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in news and political programming.
The Commission said it had observed a decline in professionalism among presenters and anchors, citing instances where personal opinions were presented as facts and where guests were not given fair hearing during discussions.
It warned that such practices undermine the integrity of broadcast journalism and could fuel misinformation, hate speech, and public distrust, especially as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
Under the directive, any broadcaster found guilty of violating provisions relating to fairness, balance, and neutrality risks sanctions classified under regulatory frameworks.
But the backlash has extended beyond Nigeria, with Amnesty International condemning the directive as authoritarian and inconsistent with democratic norms.
Amnesty International warned that the move represents an attempt to stifle press freedom and silence critical voices, urging Nigerian authorities to uphold international human rights obligations and protect the independence of the media.
The organisation stressed that a free press remains essential for accountability, transparency, and credible elections, cautioning that any attempt to restrict media space could erode public trust in governance.
Media stakeholders across the country have also expressed divergent views on the development. While some industry players support the NBC’s effort to enforce professionalism and curb excesses, others argue that the directive risks being misused to suppress dissenting opinions.
Analysts note that the unfolding debate reflects a broader tension between regulation and freedom in Nigeria’s media landscape, particularly in the context of electoral politics.
They warn that how the government manages the situation could significantly shape perceptions of Nigeria’s democratic health, especially as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.
Observers say the coming days will be critical, as pressure mounts on the Presidency to either uphold the NBC directive or heed calls for its withdrawal.
For many, the outcome will not only determine the future of broadcast regulation but also signal the government’s stance on media independence and freedom of expression in one of Africa’s largest democracies.
Daily Courier
