The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has dismissed a directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on media conduct, calling it an effort to suppress press freedom and undermine editorial independence. The directive, released on April 17, 2026, instructs broadcast anchors to refrain from expressing personal opinions and to adopt a "crisis-free" presentation style, with non-compliance subject to sanctions. In a statement signed by National Secretary Achike Chude, the NUJ expressed "grave concern and utter disappointment," arguing that such rules would reduce journalists to "mere mouthpieces" and weaken the media's role in providing critical analysis. The union described the NBC's warning as a "veiled attempt to gag the media and institutionalise censorship," particularly objecting to the classification of editorial choices as punishable offences under the NBC's regulatory code. It warned that threats of heavy fines and suspensions could create a "chilling effect," leading to self-censorship among broadcasters. The NUJ cited Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects freedom of expression, and insisted that the NBC Code cannot override constitutional rights. While affirming its support for ethical journalism, the union urged the NBC to hold consultations with media stakeholders instead of imposing top-down restrictions. It also called on the Federal Government to prevent regulatory bodies from being used as tools against the press, stressing that silencing journalists threatens democratic governance. The NUJ advised journalists nationwide to remain professional, fearless, and accountable to the public, reiterating that "the media is the watchdog of society, not the lapdog of the government or the opposition."
A regulator demanding opinion-free broadcasts while accusing journalists of inciting crisis reveals a fundamental contradiction in how it views media responsibility. If anchors are barred from analysis, the public loses access to context—especially during political events where neutrality can blur into silence. The NBC's push for a "crisis-free" style risks turning news into scripted performance, not reporting. When constitutional rights are weighed against regulatory warnings, the law should not be the one backing down.
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