By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
The Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has raised concerns over some vague provisions in the Nigeria Broadcasting Code (NBC) saying that they could threaten freedom of expression and media independence in the forthcoming 2027 elections.
In a statement issued on Monday in Lagos, MRA praised the Commission’s April 17, 2026 notice to broadcasters, describing it as timely and proactive in promoting professionalism, ethical conduct, and compliance with broadcasting standards during the pre-election period.
The NBC, in its notice, however, highlighted increasing breaches of the Code in news, current affairs, and political programming, stressing the need for accuracy, fairness, balance, and professionalism as the country approaches a critical electoral cycle.
MRA’s Executive Director, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, welcomed the intervention, noting that it would help curb misinformation, hate speech, and incitement capable of undermining democratic processes and social cohesion.
He, however, expressed reservations about certain aspects of the Code referenced by the Commission, warning that unclear language and undefined terms could be misinterpreted or misapplied.
“Although professionalism and impartiality are important, a blanket restriction on presenters’ expression of opinions risks undermining legitimate journalistic formats, such as analysis, commentary, and other forms of editorial programming,” Mr. Ojo said.
He added that such restrictions could violate the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Section 39 of the Constitution and other international instruments.
Mr. Ojo argued that limiting presenters’ opinions should apply only to news bulletins and not extend to all forms of programming, as suggested by the NBC’s citation of Section 1.10.3 of the Code.
He also raised concerns about provisions requiring that “all sides to an issue are equitably presented,” noting that while well-intentioned, such expectations may be impractical in certain editorial contexts and could restrict editorial judgment.
The MRA further criticised what it described as broad and vague restrictions on “divisive materials” or content that may “compromise the indivisibility” of Nigeria, warning that such terms could be used to suppress legitimate public debate and dissenting views.
On the issue of broadcasters’ conduct towards guests, Mr. Ojo cautioned that the NBC’s warning against bullying or intimidation lacks clear definitions, which could allow tough but necessary questioning of public officials to be mischaracterised.
“Broadcasters asking hard questions of their guests, particularly public officials, as part of the media’s constitutional duty to hold them accountable, could easily be mischaracterised as bullying or intimidation,” he said.
While acknowledging the Commission’s efforts to curb hate speech and misuse of broadcast platforms by political actors, Mr. Ojo stressed the need for regulatory measures to be precise, proportionate, and consistent with constitutional guarantees.
He called on the NBC to clarify ambiguous provisions, protect legitimate journalistic formats, and engage stakeholders, including broadcasters and civil society groups, to ensure balanced regulation.
Mr. Ojo emphasised that as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, a free, independent, and professional media remains essential for credible elections and democratic accountability.
He added that MRA is committed to working with the NBC and other stakeholders to promote a media environment that is professional, free, and independent.
End.
What's your reaction?
