NBC Warns Broadcasters Against ‘Rising Broadcasting Code Violations’ Ahead 2027 Polls

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a formal notice to broadcasters across Nigeria, raising concerns over what it described as a sustained increase in violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in news, current affairs, and political programmes.

In a press release dated Friday, April 17, 2026, and posted on its official X handle on Saturday, the regulatory Commission said broadcast platforms were increasingly being used in ways that deviate from their core responsibility to provide accurate, balanced, and professional information to the public.

“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,” the statement read, highlighting key areas such as fairness, balance, accuracy, hate speech, incitement, and respect for constitutional bodies.

The NBC expressed particular concern over what it termed a “crisis of anchor and presenter professionalism,” noting a growing trend of presenters expressing personal opinions, failing to provide balanced perspectives, and allowing inflammatory content during broadcasts.

Citing specific provisions of the Code, the Commission reminded broadcasters that presenters must not inject personal views into programmes and must ensure all sides of issues of public interest are equitably represented. It also warned against the use of hate speech or derogatory remarks in political content.

In addition, the regulatory body flagged the “misuse of broadcast platforms by political actors,” accusing politicians across party lines of deploying the media to air divisive and potentially harmful content. It stressed that no broadcast should incite crime, promote disorder, or undermine national unity.

The NBC stated that any presenter found to have expressed personal opinions as fact, intimidated guests, or denied fair hearing to opposing views would be deemed to have committed a Class B breach under the Code.

“Broadcast platforms must not be used for hate speech, personal attacks, or content inciting disorder along political lines,” the Commission warned, adding that editorial responsibility remains solely with broadcasters, even during live programmes.

The Commission placed all broadcasters on formal notice, emphasising that compliance with the Code wws “mandatory, not discretionary,” and warning that inflammatory or unsubstantiated content would attract regulatory sanctions.

“As Nigeria enters a critical electoral period, the airwaves must not amplify tension or propagate misinformation. They must remain platforms for credible information, responsible discourse, and national cohesion,” the statement added.

The NBC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring quality broadcasting while urging media organisations to uphold professionalism and ethical standards in the lead-up to the 2027 general election.