Atiku Accuses NBC Of Attempting To Silence Media Ahead of 2027 Polls

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as an attempt to stifle free expression and silence dissent within the media space.

The NBC had, on Saturday, cautioned broadcast presenters against presenting opinions as facts or intimidating guests during programmes.

The commission also warned that as Nigeria approaches a critical electoral period, the airwaves must not be used to spread misinformation.

Reacting in a post on X later that night, Atiku described the directive as “yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria.”

He noted that Nigeria’s media industry has evolved into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism.

According to him, it is “alarming” that the NBC often resorts to what he termed “heavy-handed directives” whenever elections draw near.

“I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he said.

Atiku further argued that ethical standards in journalism should not be “seasonal tools to be weaponised during campaigns,” adding that the timing and tone of the advisory suggest a deeper agenda.

He accused the government of prioritising control of public narratives over ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.

The NBC directive comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general election, where the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is expected to field President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election.

On the opposition front, key figures are aligning under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), positioning it as a coalition platform to challenge the dominance of the ruling party.

Prominent stakeholders in the emerging opposition bloc include Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi.