NUJ Condemns NBC Directive, Warns Against Suppression Of Free Speech

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned the recent formal notice issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as a veiled attempt to gag the media and institutionalize censorship in the country.

In a press release issued on April 17, 2026, and signed by its National Secretary, Achike Chude, the union expressed grave concern and disappointment over the NBC directive, which warned broadcasters to ensure “strict and uncompromised compliance” over alleged breaches of professionalism.

According to the NUJ, the warning against anchors expressing “personal opinions” and the demand for a “crisis-free” presentation style amount to direct interference in the editorial independence of media organizations.

The union argued that journalism, especially in current affairs and political analysis, requires robust engagement, noting that stripping presenters of the right to analyze and contextualize news would reduce the Nigerian media to mere government mouthpieces.

It further criticized the NBC’s classification of such perceived offences as Class B breaches, punishable by heavy fines or suspension, saying the move creates a climate of fear that encourages self-censorship among journalists.

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“This regime of fear discourages journalists from asking tough questions for fear of being labeled unprofessional or hostile by a regulatory body that has increasingly become a political tool,” the statement read.

The NUJ also reminded the commission that Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart information without interference.

It stressed that the NBC Code must not be used to override constitutional rights, insisting that freedom of the press remains fundamental to Nigeria’s democracy.

Declaring its full solidarity with broadcast stations and journalists nationwide, the union vowed not to remain silent while civic space is being constricted under the guise of regulation.

The NUJ called on the NBC to engage in meaningful dialogue with media stakeholders rather than issuing threats, and urged the government to ensure regulatory agencies are not weaponized against the media.

It also charged journalists and broadcasters to remain professional, fearless, and committed to truth, emphasizing that the media is the watchdog of society and not the lapdog of government or opposition.

“The media is the watchdog of society, not the lapdog of the government and opposition. Any attempt to break the screen or silence the microphone is an attack on Nigerian democracy itself,” the statement concluded.