Atiku criticises NBC directive on Broadcast Code ahead of 2027 elections, warns of media clampdown

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Vice President and presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the recent directive issued to broadcasters by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over alleged breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code ahead of the 2027 elections.

The commission had raised concerns over what it described as growing violations in news, current affairs and political programmes, noting that broadcast platforms are increasingly deviating from their core responsibility of informing the public with accuracy, balance and professionalism.

It vowed to enforce strict compliance with the provisions of the Broadcasting Code, particularly on fairness, accuracy, balance, hate speech, incitement and respect for constitutional institutions.

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However, in a sharp reaction, Atiku described the NBC’s advisory as a troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in the country.

He noted that Nigeria’s media industry has evolved into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism.

Atiku expressed concern that the NBC often resorts to what he termed heavy-handed directives whenever elections approach, arguing that such actions tend to silence dissent rather than promote ethical journalism.

He said he would stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and other media platforms to resist what he described as “creeping censorship,” stressing that ethical standards should not be selectively enforced during election periods.

“The timing and tone of these regulations expose a deeper agenda. It signals a government more interested in controlling narratives than permitting a free, fair and transparent electoral process,” he said.