The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised alarms over a reported threat by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of airing personal opinions as facts or bullying guests on live programs.
In a joint press release signed by President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the NBC’s move as “dangerous and injurious to journalism.” They warned it represents a direct assault on press freedom, editorial independence, and democratic accountability.
The NGE acknowledged the NBC’s aim to enforce professionalism and ethical standards in broadcasting. However, they criticized the regulator’s statement as vague and overly broad, leaving it open to multiple interpretations that could stifle legitimate discourse.
The Guild believes that such ambiguity creates room for misuse, as it may be selectively applied or misinterpreted in ways that unfairly target journalists and media organisations carrying out their legitimate duties.
This development heightens ongoing tensions between media regulators and journalists in Nigeria, where press freedom remains a flashpoint amid efforts to curb misinformation.
The interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across News, Current Affairs, and Political Programmes is inherently subjective. By positioning itself as the sole arbiter regarding rigorous questioning or appropriate scrutiny, the NBC opens the door to potential abuse, the statement further reads.
The statement partly reads: “This approach risks weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices.
“We reiterate that the role of broadcast presenters and journalists, particularly during interviews, is to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies, and demand clarity in the public interest. Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable.
“As the country moves closer to another election cycle, there is no better time for the media to intensify its watchdog role than now. The scrutiny of political actors is essential.
“Citizens rely on the media for accurate and comprehensive information to make informed decisions and carry out their civic responsibilities. This responsibility demands that journalists ask tough, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest.
“While we acknowledge the need for professionalism and civility in broadcasting, we must not lose sight of a fundamental truth: Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities.
“Journalists are not lawbreakers. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that “comment is free, but facts are sacred.”
“We therefore urge regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent, and fair frameworks that do not undermine the independence of the media.
“The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty.
“In the face of such threats, the Nigerian press will not be intimidated. We remain resolute in our commitment to ask tough questions, report facts, and provide analysis without fear or favour.”
0 comments:
Post a Comment