The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed grave concern and deep disappointment over the recent “formal notice” issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on April 17, 2026, to broadcasters and journalists across Nigeria.
The Union made its position known in a press statement signed by its National Secretary, Achike Chude, and made available to journalists nationwide.
According to the statement, the directive threatens broadcasters with “strict and uncompromised compliance” over loosely defined allegations of professionalism breaches, describing it as a veiled attempt to stifle the media and institutionalize censorship.
The NUJ stated that the NBC’s warning against anchors expressing
“personal opinions,” alongside its insistence on a “crisis-free” presentation style, represents a direct intrusion into the editorial independence of media organizations.
It emphasized that journalism—particularly in current affairs and political analysis—requires critical thinking, context, and informed interpretation.
Denying presenters the ability to analyze and provide perspective, the Union argued, reduces the media to a mere conveyor of information, stripped of its core responsibility.
The statement further described the NBC’s regulations as vague and intimidating, noting that classifying such alleged “offenses” as Class B breaches—punishable by heavy fines or suspension—creates a climate of fear within the media space.
According to the NUJ, this ambiguity fosters a chilling effect, encouraging self-censorship among journalists who may become reluctant to ask critical questions for fear of sanctions, thereby undermining democratic discourse.
On constitutional grounds, the Union reminded the NBC that Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and disseminate information without interference.
It stressed that regulatory frameworks, including the NBC Code, must operate within the limits of the Constitution.
The NUJ, however, declared its unwavering solidarity with broadcast stations and journalists across the country, vowing not to remain passive while civic space is constricted under the guise of regulation.
The Union called for constructive engagement, urging the NBC to prioritize dialogue and consultation with media stakeholders rather than issuing unilateral directives. It also called on the government to ensure that regulatory agencies are not used as instruments to suppress press freedom.
Furthermore, the NUJ urged journalists and broadcasters to remain steadfast, professional, and courageous in the discharge of their duties, emphasizing that their allegiance is to the public and the truth.
“The media remains the watchdog of society, not a lapdog to any arm of government or political interest.
Any attempt to silence the press is, ultimately, an attack on the very fabric of Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement concluded.