Former Vice President and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the recent Code of Conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as an attempt to restrict press freedom and limit free expression ahead of elections.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, Atiku said the advisory signals a troubling pattern of regulatory pressure on the media during election periods.
“The Code of Conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission is yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria,” he said.
The NBC had issued the advisory on Friday, citing concerns over declining professionalism among broadcast anchors and presenters. It directed broadcasters to maintain neutrality and uphold ethical standards at all times.
The commission warned that any presenter who expresses personal opinions as fact, intimidates guests, denies fair hearing to opposing views, compromises neutrality, or shows disrespect for human dignity would be in violation of broadcast regulations. Such breaches, it added, would attract sanctions as the 2027 general elections approach.
Reacting, Atiku argued that Nigeria’s media industry has earned global respect and should not be subjected to what he described as heavy-handed directives.
“Our media industry has grown into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism,” he said.
He further stated, “Ethical standards are not seasonal tools to be weaponised during campaigns; they are constant obligations.”
Atiku expressed concern that the timing and tone of the advisory suggest an attempt to control political narratives rather than strengthen journalistic integrity.
“I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he added.
He warned that excessive regulation during election periods could weaken democratic accountability and erode public trust in the electoral process.
