The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as a threat to press freedom and democratic governance.
The latest NBC directive is a regulatory advisory urging Nigerian broadcasters to uphold professional ethics, including avoiding personal opinions in news, prohibiting guest intimidation, and ensuring neutrality, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reacting, Obi warned that attempts to regulate media content during a sensitive political period could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, he warned that Nigeria was “drifting dangerously” at a time when democratic institutions should be strengthened rather than weakened.
“The recent notice by the National Broadcasting Commission, especially at this critical time of the general elections, is very troubling,” Obi said.
He argued that a free and responsible media should not be seen as an adversary by any administration, particularly one with a history of pro-democracy advocacy.
“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy,” he added.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that the role of the media as a watchdog must be protected, cautioning against any attempt to suppress dissenting voices.
“The media is the conscience of the nation. Attempting to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weakens our already fragile democracy,” Obi said.
He further noted that institutions exist to serve the people, not the government, urging authorities to prioritise governance over media control.
“At a time when insecurity is on the rise, young Nigerians are losing faith in the country, and the economy continues to fail the average citizen, our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results,” he stated.
Obi also declared his support for media organisations, calling for transparency, accountability, and institutional independence.
“I stand in solidarity with Nigeria’s media houses and broadcasters who are standing against this attempt to silence independent voices and restrict free expression,” he said.
He concluded with a warning that continued actions perceived as suppressing press freedom could further endanger the country’s democracy.
