NBC threatens sanctions over declining standards in news, political broadcasting
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a formal notice to broadcast stations across Nigeria, warning of stricter enforcement of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code following what it described as a sustained rise in ethical and professional breaches, particularly in news, current affairs, and political programming.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a formal notice to broadcast stations across Nigeria, warning of stricter enforcement of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code following what it described as a sustained rise in ethical and professional breaches, particularly in news, current affairs, and political programming.
In a statement released Friday, the commission said it had observed a troubling pattern in which broadcast platforms are increasingly being used in ways that undermine their core responsibility to inform the public with “accuracy, balance, and professionalism.”
The commission noted that the trend, if unchecked, could erode public trust in the media and heighten tensions as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.
The NBC stressed that it would enforce “strict and uncompromised compliance” with the provisions of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
It specifically highlighted rules relating to fairness, accuracy, balance, hate speech, and respect for constitutional authorities, warning that infractions in these areas would attract sanctions.
“As we approach the 2027 General Elections, the Commission, hereby, notifies all broadcasters and stakeholders that it will enforce strict and uncompromised compliance with every provision of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly, those relating to fairness, balance, accuracy, hate speech, incitement and respect for constitutional bodies,” the commission said.
A major concern raised by the commission is what it termed a “crisis” in the professionalism of programme anchors and presenters.
According to the NBC, there has been a noticeable departure from established journalistic standards, including instances where presenters inject personal opinions into programmes, fail to give equitable representation to opposing views, or allow discussions to tilt in favour of particular interests.
Such practices, the commission said, violate explicit provisions of the broadcasting code that require neutrality and fairness in the handling of issues of public interest.
The commission also criticised what it described as the misuse of broadcast platforms by political actors. It said politicians across party lines are increasingly exploiting radio and television programmes to disseminate content that may be inflammatory, divisive, or capable of inciting public disorder.
The NBC referenced multiple sections of the code that prohibit content capable of encouraging crime, undermining national unity, or disrespecting human dignity.
In particular, the commission expressed concern over the growing prevalence of hate speech, inciting rhetoric, and narratives that could deepen political and communal divisions. It warned that such content not only violates broadcasting standards but also poses a broader threat to Nigeria’s stability, especially in a politically sensitive period.
The commission noted that some broadcasters now allow personal opinions to be presented as facts, in clear violation of established guidelines.
It cited provisions of the code which prohibit presenters from injecting personal views into programmes and mandate that all sides of issues of public interest must be equitably represented, preferably within the same broadcast.
The NBC further emphasised that broadcasters bear ultimate responsibility for content transmitted on their platforms, regardless of the source.
It urged media organisations to strengthen internal editorial controls and ensure that all programmes, especially those dealing with politics, elections, and public policy, are handled with the highest level of professionalism and sensitivity.
“Broadcast platforms must not be used for hate speech, personal attacks, or content inciting disorder along political lines. The Code places a non-transferable obligation on broadcasters to exercise editorial judgment at all times, including during Live programming,” the commission stated.
As part of its renewed enforcement posture, the commission warned that any anchor or presenter found to have expressed personal opinions as fact, intimidated guests, denied fair hearing to opposing views, or otherwise compromised neutrality would be deemed to have committed a Class B breach under the code. Such infractions, it noted, could attract regulatory sanctions.
Reiterating its directive, the NBC placed all broadcasters on formal notice to ensure strict adherence to the code in all news and political programming. It stressed that compliance is mandatory and not subject to discretion, adding that stations must guarantee fairness, balance, accuracy and the right of reply in their content.
The commission cautioned that inflammatory, unverified or divisive broadcasts would not be tolerated, particularly in the build-up to the next election cycle. It urged media organisations to uphold their responsibility as gatekeepers of information and contributors to national stability.
“As Nigeria enters a critical electoral period, the airwaves must not amplify tension or propagate misinformation,” the statement said. “They must remain platforms for credible information, responsible discourse and national cohesion.”
The NBC added that it would continue to monitor compliance and enforce sanctions where necessary, while maintaining its mandate to ensure quality broadcasting for the public.
Under its establishing law, the National Broadcasting Commission is mandated to regulate and control broadcasting in Nigeria. Its responsibilities include issuing and renewing broadcast licences, monitoring content to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, and enforcing sanctions where breaches occur.
The commission is also tasked with promoting professionalism, fairness and balance in broadcasting, while ensuring that content does not undermine national security, public order or the unity of the country. It serves as the primary regulator responsible for setting standards for radio and television operations, as well as safeguarding the public’s right to receive accurate and responsible information.
In carrying out these duties, the NBC monitors stations, investigates complaints, and applies penalties ranging from fines to suspension or revocation of licences, depending on the severity of violations.
