The Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has officially commended the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for its proactive steps in issuing timely guidance to broadcasters ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections. The organization noted that the move is essential for promoting professionalism, ethical conduct, and compliance with global broadcasting standards during a sensitive political period.
However, the advocacy group raised significant alarms regarding vague and undefined language within the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. MRA warned that these ambiguities could be misinterpreted or weaponized to stifle media independence and infringe upon the freedom of expression guaranteed to all Nigerians.
Proactive Regulation for Credible Polls
In a notice issued on April 17, 2026, the NBC highlighted a rise in breaches of the Code within news and political programming. The Commission underscored that as the country approaches the 2027 polls, broadcast content must prioritize accuracy, fairness, and balance.
Welcoming the intervention, the Executive Director of MRA, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, described the guidance as a necessary safeguard against misinformation, hate speech, and incitement. He noted that such measures are vital for maintaining social cohesion and protecting the integrity of the democratic process.
Concerns Over Journalistic Freedom
Despite the commendation, Mr. Ojo expressed deep concern over the NBC’s directive referenced under Section 1.10.3 of the Code which prohibits presenters from expressing personal opinions. He argued that a blanket restriction risks silencing legitimate editorial analysis and commentary, which are pillars of democratic discourse.
“Although professionalism and impartiality are important, a blanket restriction on presenters’ expression of opinions risks undermining legitimate journalistic formats,” Mr. Ojo stated. “It potentially violates the right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions, guaranteed by Section 39 of the Constitution.”
He further clarified that while news bulletins should remain strictly objective, the prohibition should not extend to all programming, as this would severely constrain editorial judgment and flexibility.
Ambiguity and Potential for Abuse
The MRA also took issue with the NBC’s warnings against divisive materials and the bullying of guests. Without precise definitions, the organization fears these provisions could be used to shield public officials from accountability.
“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 mischaracterized as bullying or intimidation,” Ojo warned.
A Call for Regulatory Clarity
As Nigeria prepares for the next electoral cycle, the MRA is calling on the NBC to:
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Clarify ambiguous provisions to prevent arbitrary interpretations.
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Protect diverse journalistic formats, including opinion-based programming and expert analysis.
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Engage in dialogue with media professionals and civil society to ensure regulations are effective yet balanced.
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Uphold international standards on freedom of expression while enforcing professional ethics.
Mr. Ojo concluded by emphasizing that a free and independent media is indispensable to democratic accountability. He reaffirmed the MRA’s commitment to working with the NBC to foster a media environment that is professional, free, and robust enough to support the nation’s democratic aspirations.
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