The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised alarm over a reported move by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of expressing personal opinions as facts or bullying guests on air, describing the development as a serious threat to press freedom.
In a press release dated April 21, 2026, and signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild said it viewed the NBC’s stance as “dangerous and injurious to journalism.”
The statement read, “It amounts to a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability.”
The Guild acknowledged that the NBC may be aiming to promote professionalism and uphold ethical standards but warned that its directive lacked clarity. It noted that “the Commission’s vague and broadly worded statement is open to multiple interpretations,” adding that such ambiguity could lead to selective enforcement against journalists and media organisations.
According to the NGE, the interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, especially across news, current affairs and political programming, is inherently subjective. It cautioned that the NBC’s position as a final authority on what constitutes appropriate scrutiny could lead to abuse.
“This approach risks weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices,” the Guild stated.
Reaffirming the role of journalists, the NGE stressed that questioning public officials is central to democratic accountability. “Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable,” it said.
The Guild further emphasised the importance of rigorous media scrutiny as Nigeria approaches another election cycle, noting that citizens depend on the media for credible information. It stated, “This responsibility demands that journalists ask tough, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest.”
While supporting professionalism and civility in broadcasting, the Guild warned against weakening the core function of journalism. “Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities,” the statement said.
It also defended journalists as professionals guided by ethical standards, stressing that “comment is free, but facts are sacred.”
The NGE called on regulators to ensure transparency and fairness in enforcing broadcasting rules, urging the NBC to act with restraint and impartiality. “The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty,” it added.
Concluding, the Guild declared its resolve to resist any attempt to intimidate the media. “In the face of such threats, the Nigerian press will not be intimidated. We remain resolute in our commitment to ask tough questions, report facts, and provide analysis without fear or favour.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
