The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised alarm over a reported transfer by the Nigerian Broadcasting Fee (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of expressing private opinions as info or bullying visitors on air, describing the event as a severe threat to press freedom.
In a press launch dated April 21, 2026, and signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and Common Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild stated it seen the NBC’s stance as “harmful and injurious to journalism.”
The assertion learn, “It quantities to a direct assault on the rules of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability.”
The Guild acknowledged that the NBC could also be aiming to advertise professionalism and uphold moral requirements however warned that its directive lacked readability. It famous that “the Fee’s obscure and broadly worded assertion is open to a number of interpretations,” including that such ambiguity might result in selective enforcement in opposition to journalists and media organisations.
In response to the NGE, the interpretation of the sixth Version of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly throughout information, present affairs and political programming, is inherently subjective. It cautioned that the NBC’s place as a closing authority on what constitutes applicable scrutiny might result in abuse.
“This method dangers weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship amongst broadcasters, stifle legit journalistic inquiry, and silence essential voices,” the Guild said.
Reaffirming the function of journalists, the NGE burdened that questioning public officers is central to democratic accountability. “Journalism isn’t designed to put public officers or interviewees in a consolation zone, however to carry energy accountable,” it stated.
The Guild additional emphasised the significance of rigorous media scrutiny as Nigeria approaches one other election cycle, noting that residents rely on the media for credible data. It said, “This accountability calls for that journalists ask powerful, even uncomfortable, questions within the public curiosity.”
Whereas supporting professionalism and civility in broadcasting, the Guild warned in opposition to weakening the core operate of journalism. “Democracy doesn’t thrive on timid journalism, however on daring, accountable, and fact-driven interrogation of points and personalities,” the assertion stated.
It additionally defended journalists as professionals guided by moral requirements, stressing that “remark is free, however info are sacred.”
The NGE known as on regulators to make sure transparency and equity in implementing broadcasting guidelines, urging the NBC to behave with restraint and impartiality. “The NBC should show impartiality and restraint, rigorously distinguishing between real misconduct and the rightful train of journalistic responsibility,” it added.
Concluding, the Guild declared its resolve to withstand any try and intimidate the media. “Within the face of such threats, the Nigerian press won’t be intimidated. We stay resolute in our dedication to ask powerful questions, report info, and supply evaluation with out worry or favour.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
Times Nigeria