Atiku faults NBC advisory, warns against threat to press freedom
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a recent election-related advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), warning that it could undermine press freedom and restrict free expression in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 polls.
Atiku reacted to the development in a statement issued via his official X handle on Saturday.
“The Code of Conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission is yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria,” he said.
He argued that Nigeria’s media landscape has earned global respect and should not be subjected to what he described as repeated regulatory pressure during election periods.
“Our media industry has grown into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism,” he said, adding that ethical rules should not be selectively enforced during political campaigns.
He further cautioned that excessive regulation of broadcasting during election periods could weaken democratic accountability and erode public trust in the electoral process.
The NBC had issued a directive warning broadcasters against bullying of guests, misuse of platforms, and other breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
In the advisory, the commission expressed concern over a rise in violations of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across news, current affairs, and political programmes, adding that it would enforce stricter compliance going forward.
