The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has threatened to enforce Class B breaches of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code against anchors who express personal opinions as facts, intimidate guests, or fail to present opposing views. The Commission cited a rise in violations of the 6th Edition of the Code, particularly in news and political programmes, claiming broadcasts are straying from accuracy, balance, and professionalism. It linked the trend to increasing use of airwaves for divisive content ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting broadcasters bear full editorial responsibility for live content.
NBC stated that presenters often present opinions as facts and allow inflammatory material without fair representation of contrary positions, breaching code provisions on responsible conduct. The Commission insists airwaves must not amplify tension or spread misinformation to preserve national cohesion. However, its authority to impose penalties has been legally challenged. On May 10, 2023, the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice James Omotosho presiding, ruled NBC cannot impose fines, annulling ₦500,000 fines on 45 stations from 2019, stating only courts can impose criminal sanctions.
The Federal High Court in Lagos, Justice Nicholas Oweibo on June 13, 2024, declared NBC lacks power to fine, suspend, or revoke licenses, calling such acts harassment. The Court of Appeal in Abuja, led by Justice Oyebiola Oyewumi in April 2026, dismissed NBC's appeal and upheld prior rulings, affirming the fines were null and beyond statutory reach.
NBC continues to assert powers already revoked by multiple court rulings, including a 2026 appellate decision. It issued new threats in the same month the Court of Appeal confirmed it cannot sanction broadcasters. This contradicts judicial findings that its penalties violate constitutional press freedom. Nigerian journalists operate under legal protection the Commission now ignores.
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