The Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a directive to all broadcast organisations in the country, warning of sanctions for breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in news and political programming. The commission cited a rise in ethical violations, including hate speech, biased reporting, and presenters injecting personal opinions into programmes. It stressed that broadcasters must ensure fairness, accuracy, and balance, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. The NBC stated it would enforce "strict and uncompromised compliance" with the 6th Edition of the Code, particularly rules on respect for constitutional authorities and prohibition of incitement. Anchors or presenters who intimidate guests, deny opposing views, or present opinions as facts risk being classified under a Class B breach. The commission also criticised political actors across parties for using media platforms to air inflammatory content that could deepen divisions. It reminded broadcasters they are ultimately responsible for all content aired on their platforms. The Nigerian Union of Journalists and some members of the public have expressed concern, with critics suggesting the directive may be used to limit political discourse ahead of the 2027 polls.
The NBC demands neutrality from broadcasters while operating under a government accused of weaponising institutions against dissent. If politicians from opposition parties are more likely to be tagged with hate speech for criticising the APC, the commission's enforcement risks looking selective. The directive may curb unethical journalism, but it also gives the state new leverage to silence uncomfortable truths. Neutrality means nothing if the enforcer is already seen as partisan.
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