Atiku Slams NBC Advisory As Threat To Press Freedom
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over
its recent advisory and enforcement actions against broadcast stations, describing them as a “naked
attempt to gag the media” and a serious threat to press freedom in Nigeria.
Atiku made the remarks in a statement issued on Thursday, April 16, 2026. He reacted to the NBC’s
warning of stricter penalties for violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in news, current
affairs, and political programmes, as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
Atiku accused the NBC of using its regulatory powers to intimidate and silence the media.
He stated that the commission’s approach amounted to an attempt to “exterminate” independent
broadcasting and suppress critical voices ahead of the polls.
The former PDP presidential candidate argued that such actions undermine the constitutionally
guaranteed right to freedom of expression and could stifle democratic discourse.
He called on the NBC to focus on genuine regulation rather than what he described as bullying tactics
against media organisations.
The NBC had earlier issued a notice highlighting a rise in code violations and warned broadcasters of
zero tolerance, especially regarding content that could incite unrest or spread unverified claims during
the electioneering period.
Atiku’s criticism adds to ongoing debates about the balance between media regulation and press
freedom in Nigeria, with some stakeholders expressing concerns that regulatory bodies are increasingly
being used to control narratives.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
