“Kano State Government Cannot Usurp NBC’s Role Or Gag Free Speech” –NBA

By Daniel Dafe

The Nigerian Bar Association has reacted to the announcement of Kano State Government’s ban on all live political programmes aired by radio and television stations in the state, stating that the move “strikes at the very heart of democratic expression.”

This was contained in a statement signed by
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association, nothing that “this action, allegedly aimed at curbing “inflammatory, divisive, and defamatory content,” is not only ill-advised but entirely unconstitutional.”

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According to the statement, *the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) unequivocally states that no state government has the legal competence to regulate or censor broadcast content in Nigeria.”

Adding: “That responsibility lies squarely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), established by the NBC Act, to ensure that broadcast content aligns with national standards and constitutional provisions.”

NBA said “the NBC Code already provides a comprehensive framework for regulating broadcasting, including mechanisms for addressing inappropriate or harmful content. If any station is found in breach of these guidelines,” saying that “the NBC, not state governments, is empowered to take corrective action.”

The statement said further: “This unilateral action by the Kano State Government amounts to a gross violation of Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian the right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to receive and impart information and ideas without interference.

“Attempting to suppress live political programming under the guise of maintaining public order sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the vibrancy of political discourse, transparency, and accountability. It also undermines media independence and public access to information, especially in a democratic society where the free exchange of ideas is non-negotiable.”

The NBA called for the immediate reversal of this directive and urged the National Broadcasting Commission to reassert its regulatory authority to prevent future encroachments by state governments.

“As a profession and as an institution, the NBA remains resolute in defending the rule of law and constitutional freedoms. Nigeria cannot afford to slide into an era where critical voices are silenced, and lawful expression is criminalized,” the statement concluded.