Threatenes to sanction broadcast hosts: NGE takes on NBC

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) expresses grave concern over the reported threat by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast hosts for allegedly presenting personal opinions as fact or bullying guests on air.

We believe such a move is dangerous and harmful to journalism. This amounts to a direct attack on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability.

While we recognize that NBC may be motivated by a desire to promote professionalism and uphold ethical standards in broadcasting, the Commission’s vague and broadly worded statement is open to multiple interpretations.

Such ambiguity creates space for abuse, as it can be selectively applied or misinterpreted to unfairly target journalists and media organizations carrying out their legitimate tasks.

The interpretation of the Sixth Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code on news, current affairs and political programs is inherently subjective. By placing itself as the sole arbiter of rigorous questioning or adequate vetting, NBC opens the door to potential abuse. This approach risks using the broadcast code as a weapon to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic investigations and silence critical voices.

We reiterate that the role of presenters and journalists, particularly during interviews, is to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies and seek clarity in the public interest. Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable.

As the country approaches another election cycle, there is no better time than now for the media to step up its watchdog role. Control of political actors is essential. Citizens rely on the media for accurate and complete information to make informed decisions and fulfill their civic responsibilities. This responsibility requires journalists to ask difficult, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest.

While we recognize the need for professionalism and civility in broadcasting, we must not lose sight of a fundamental truth: Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities.

Journalists are not criminals. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that “comment is free, but facts are sacred.”

We therefore call on regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent and fair frameworks that do not undermine the independence of the media.

The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and moderation, carefully distinguishing between incorrect behavior and the legitimate exercise of journalistic duty.

Faced with such threats, the Nigerian press is not intimidated. We remain steadfast in our commitment to asking tough questions, reporting facts and providing analysis without fear or favor.

Signed

Eze Anaba
President

Onuoha Ukeh
General Secretary