News reports that the NBC recently issued a notice to broadcast stations nationwide, cautioning that it would enforce stricter compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code due to a rising trend of ethical and professional violations in news, current affairs, and political programming. The Commission warned that stations found guilty of declining professionalism, misuse of platforms by political actors, or spreading hate speech would face sanctions.

In its statement, the NBC expressed concern that many broadcast platforms were increasingly being used in ways that undermine their duty to provide accurate, balanced, and responsible information to the public.

It warned that if the trend continues unchecked, it could erode public trust in the media and heighten political tensions as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict compliance with the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly provisions relating to fairness, accuracy, balance, hate speech, incitement, and respect for constitutional institutions.

NBC also raised concerns about the conduct of programme anchors and presenters, alleging a decline in professional standards. It accused some presenters of injecting personal opinions into news discussions, failing to present opposing views fairly, and allowing bias in public-interest programming.

According to the Commission, such practices violate broadcasting rules that demand neutrality and balanced reporting.

It further criticised the use of broadcast platforms by politicians, saying political actors were increasingly spreading divisive and inflammatory messages that could incite unrest.

The Commission warned that content promoting hate speech, violence, or undermining national unity would attract regulatory action, stressing that broadcasters are fully responsible for everything aired on their platforms, including live content.

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, the Commission hereby notifies all broadcasters that it will enforce strict compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, especially provisions on fairness, balance, accuracy, hate speech, incitement and respect for constitutional authorities,” NBC stated.

It also warned that any presenter found guilty of expressing personal opinions as fact, denying fair hearing to guests, or compromising neutrality would face sanctions under a Class B breach.

Backlash From Media And Political Actors

However, the directive has sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing the NBC of attempting to stifle free speech and restrict the political space ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political analyst Adebayo Okunade alleged that the move was designed to favour the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) by limiting opposition voices on broadcast platforms. He argued that critical discussions about government performance could now be unfairly labelled as hate speech or incitement.

Similarly, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) described the directive as a veiled attempt at censorship, warning that it could lead to intimidation and self-censorship among journalists.

The NUJ insisted that journalists have the constitutional right to express opinions and analyse public affairs, especially in political programming, and cautioned against turning the media into a government mouthpiece.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors also condemned the NBC’s position, describing it as vague and open to abuse. It warned that such regulatory ambiguity could be used to suppress investigative journalism and silence critical voices.

The Guild stressed that journalism plays a vital role in holding power accountable and should not be reduced to cautious or “comfortable” reporting.

Opposition Voices And Warnings

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also criticised the directive, warning that attempts to regulate media content during a sensitive election period could weaken Nigeria’s democracy.

He described the media as a critical pillar of democracy and cautioned that intimidation of journalists under regulatory cover would only deepen public distrust in institutions.

Obi further argued that the government should focus on insecurity, economic hardship, and restoring public confidence rather than controlling media narratives.

He called for stronger institutions, transparency, and respect for press freedom, stressing that Nigeria does not need tighter media control but stronger democratic structures.

NBC Stands Its Ground

Despite the backlash, the NBC maintained that its actions are aimed at restoring professionalism in broadcasting and protecting national stability.

The Commission insisted that broadcasters must adhere strictly to ethical standards and avoid content that could incite violence, spread misinformation, or undermine democratic institutions.

As the controversy continues, tensions remain high between regulators, media organisations, and political stakeholders over the future of broadcast regulation in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections.