The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly criticised the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over a recent directive to broadcast stations, describing it as an attempt to suppress press freedom ahead of the 2027 elections.
The backlash followed a “formal notice” issued by the NBC on April 17, 2026, cautioning broadcasters against alleged violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The commission specifically warned presenters against expressing “personal opinions” on air and urged a “crisis-free” style of presentation to ensure neutrality and balance.
Reacting in a sharply worded statement, the NUJ said the directive amounts to institutionalised censorship and undue interference in editorial independence.
The union’s National Secretary, Achike Chude, argued that the NBC’s position undermines the essence of journalism, particularly in the areas of political analysis and current affairs.
“Journalism requires robust engagement. To strip presenters of their right to analyse and contextualise issues is to reduce the media to a mere mouthpiece,” the statement said.
The NUJ also expressed concern over what it described as vague regulatory provisions in the directive, warning that the classification of certain infractions as “Class B breaches”—which attract fines or possible suspension—could intimidate journalists and discourage critical reporting.
According to the union, such measures risk creating a climate of fear within the media industry, where professionals may resort to self-censorship to avoid sanctions.
“This regime of fear will make journalists hesitant to ask hard questions, for fear of being labelled unprofessional or hostile by a regulatory body that is increasingly perceived as a political tool,” the statement added.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, the NUJ stressed that freedom of expression—including the right to hold and disseminate opinions—is guaranteed and cannot be overridden by regulatory codes.
“The NBC Code must not supersede the Constitution. Government has a responsibility to ensure that agencies like the NBC are not used to undermine media freedom,” Chude said.
The union further urged journalists and broadcasters across the country to remain steadfast in upholding professional standards and public accountability.
“The media is the watchdog of society, not the lapdog of government or opposition. Any attempt to silence it is a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement concluded.