SERAP to Tinubu: Withdraw NBC’s ‘Unlawful’ Directive Targeting Broadcasters

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately direct the withdrawal of what it described as an “unlawful” directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) against broadcast stations and presenters.

In a statement dated April 18, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation called on the President to instruct the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, and the NBC to withdraw the “Formal Notice” issued on April 17.

SERAP said the notice, which cites alleged breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and threatens sanctions, including fines and suspension for so called “Class B breaches,” is vague and unjustified. The group expressed concern that the directive targets broadcasters over issues such as the expression of personal opinions, alleged intimidation of guests, and failure to maintain neutrality.

The organisation further urged the federal government to refrain from imposing what it described as prior censorship on journalists and media organisations, insisting that such actions undermine constitutional rights and democratic values.

“The NBC’s notice represents a dangerous attempt to impose prior censorship on the media and suppress legitimate journalistic expression,” SERAP stated.

It argued that both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments protect the right to hold and express opinions, including commentary and analysis, which it described as central to journalism and democratic discourse.

SERAP specifically faulted Section 1.10.3 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which restricts presenters from expressing personal opinions, describing it as a form of prior restraint that fails the legal tests of necessity, legality, and proportionality in a democratic society.

The group also criticised the NBC’s reliance on several provisions of the Broadcasting Code to classify a wide range of conduct as sanctionable offences, saying the provisions are vague, overbroad, and open to arbitrary interpretation.

According to SERAP, the directive risks creating a chilling effect on journalists, discouraging critical reporting and limiting scrutiny of public officials, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

While acknowledging the need to prevent misuse of broadcast platforms, the organisation maintained that regulatory measures must be lawful, precise, and proportionate, without infringing on fundamental rights or editorial independence.

SERAP gave the federal government 48 hours to act on its recommendations, warning that it would take legal action in the public interest if there is no response within the stipulated timeframe.