Dare Babalola
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as growing attempts to stifle press freedom in Nigeria, warning that the country is “drifting dangerously” at a critical democratic moment.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi criticised recent actions attributed to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing them as troubling, especially with general elections approaching.
“Yesterday’s Advocates of democracy, Today’s Oppressor of the Press,” Obi said, expressing disappointment over what he views as a shift in attitude by those once seen as defenders of democratic values.
According to him, Nigeria should be strengthening its democratic institutions rather than weakening them.
He cautioned against any move that could be interpreted as intimidation of the media or restriction of free expression.
“Nigeria is drifting dangerously. At a time when our nation should be strengthening its vital democratic institutions, we are witnessing a pattern that shows the opposite,” he stated.
Obi stressed that a free press remains central to democratic governance, arguing that attempts to regulate or suppress media voices under any guise ultimately undermine national stability.
“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy. The media is the conscience of the nation,” he said.
He further warned that institutions must not be designed to serve those in power, but rather to protect the interests of citizens.
“Institutions are not built to serve governments; they are built to serve the people,” Obi added.
Highlighting Nigeria’s broader challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and declining public trust, he urged leaders to focus on governance outcomes rather than controlling narratives.
“At a time when insecurity is on the rise, young Nigerians are losing faith in the country, and the economy continues to fail the average citizen, our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results,” he noted.
Obi called for a return to transparency and accountability, insisting that democratic survival depends on institutional independence.
“Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions,” he said, adding that he stands in solidarity with media organisations resisting attempts to limit press freedom.
He concluded by reaffirming his belief in democratic renewal, stating, “We must return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms and agencies of government. We cannot continue to endanger our democracy.”
