The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately direct the withdrawal of a controversial directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as unlawful and a threat to press freedom.
In a letter signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP urged the President to instruct the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris Malagi, and the NBC to reverse what it described as an attempt to impose prior censorship on broadcasters and journalists.
The group criticised the NBC’s “Formal Notice” issued on April 17, which warned broadcast stations against alleged breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, including the expression of “personal opinions,” perceived intimidation of guests, and failure to maintain neutrality.
SERAP argued that the directive relies on vague and overly broad provisions that could be used arbitrarily to sanction journalists, thereby undermining constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression.
“The NBC’s notice represents a dangerous attempt to impose prior censorship on the media and suppress legitimate journalistic expression,” the organisation said.
According to SERAP, the provisions cited by the NBC—particularly those restricting presenters from expressing personal opinions—amount to unconstitutional prior restraint and violate Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as international human rights standards.
The group stressed that journalism inherently involves analysis, commentary, and value judgments, all of which are protected forms of expression under both Nigerian and international law.
It further warned that the directive could create a chilling effect on media practice, discouraging critical reporting and weakening the media’s role as a public watchdog—especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
SERAP also raised concerns about the lack of clarity in terms such as “professionalism,” “bullying,” and “intimidation,” noting that their undefined scope opens the door to arbitrary enforcement and suppression of legitimate journalistic work.
While acknowledging that preventing misinformation and ensuring fairness in broadcasting are legitimate regulatory goals, the organisation insisted that such objectives must be pursued through lawful, precise, and proportionate measures.
The group gave the federal government 48 hours to act on its recommendations or face legal action to compel compliance in the public interest.
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