Editors Warn NBC Action Endangers Press Freedom

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

In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday and signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the move as dangerous and injurious to journalism.

The editors said the action amounted to a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence, and democratic accountability.

While acknowledging that the NBC may be motivated by a desire to promote professionalism and uphold ethical standards in broadcasting, the NGE noted that the commission’s statement is vague and broadly worded, making it open to multiple interpretations.

The Guild warned that such ambiguity creates room for misuse, as it could be selectively applied or misinterpreted in ways that unfairly target journalists and media organisations carrying out their legitimate duties.

According to the NGE, the interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across news, current affairs, and political programmes is inherently subjective.

It cautioned that positioning the NBC as the sole arbiter of what constitutes appropriate scrutiny or rigorous questioning could open the door to potential abuse.

“This approach risks weaponising the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices,” the statement said.

The Guild reiterated that the role of broadcast presenters and journalists, particularly during interviews, is to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies, and demand clarity in the public interest.

It stressed that 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, the NGE emphasised the need for the media to intensify its watchdog role, noting that citizens rely on the press for accurate and comprehensive information to make informed decisions.

The editors maintained that while professionalism and civility are essential in broadcasting, democracy thrives on bold, responsible, and fact-driven journalism rather than timid reporting.

Journalists are not lawbreakers. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that ‘comment is free, but facts are sacred,'” the Guild stated.

The NGE urged regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent, and fair frameworks that do not undermine media independence, calling on the NBC to demonstrate impartiality and restraint.

It added that the commission must carefully distinguish between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty.

The Guild, however, declared that despite the perceived threat, the Nigerian press would not be intimidated and would remain committed to asking tough questions, reporting facts, and providing analysis without fear or favour.