- The commission noted that common issues include presenters presenting personal views as established facts
- It added that broadcasters remain fully responsible for all content aired on their platforms
- the commission urged media organisations to promote responsible discussions
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has expressed concern over what it sees as declining professional standards among broadcast presenters, warning that violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code will be met with sanctions as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
In a statement released by its management through the Office of the Director-General’s Public Affairs Department, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the commission said it has observed a worrying shift away from the principles that guide responsible journalism.
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According to the NBC, some anchors and programme hosts are increasingly failing to uphold standards of fairness, balance, and neutrality.
The commission noted that common issues include presenters presenting personal views as established facts, not giving equal opportunity to opposing perspectives, and permitting content that could incite division or tension.
It stressed that such practices go against the code’s requirements for accuracy, professionalism, and responsible broadcasting.
NBC further warned that any presenter found intimidating guests, suppressing alternative viewpoints, or misrepresenting opinions as facts would be considered to have committed a serious breach.
It added that broadcasters remain fully responsible for all content aired on their platforms, including live programmes, and cannot shift blame to guests.
The regulator said these concerns reflect a broader increase in code violations across news, current affairs, and political shows, with some platforms being used in ways that undermine their duty to inform the public responsibly.
It also raised alarm over the use of broadcast channels by political actors to spread messages that could provoke unrest, promote hate speech, or weaken national unity.
The NBC emphasised that it will strictly enforce compliance with the broadcasting code, warning that any content deemed inflammatory, misleading, or unverified will attract penalties. It stressed that adherence to the rules is compulsory for all broadcasters.
As the country approaches another election cycle, the commission urged media organisations to promote responsible discussions and ensure that their platforms are used to provide accurate information and support national cohesion rather than fuel tension.
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