Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised concerns over what it described as an alleged threat by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of expressing personal opinions as facts or “bullying” guests during live programmes.
In a statement jointly signed on Tuesday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the guild warned that such regulatory posture could undermine press freedom, editorial independence, and democratic accountability in the country.
The NGE cautioned that while the NBC may be acting with the intention of promoting professionalism in broadcasting, the language of its directive was vague and open to varying interpretations that could be misused.
“We consider such a move dangerous and injurious to journalism. It amounts to a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability,” the guild stated.
It added that ambiguity in regulatory enforcement could lead to selective application of rules against journalists and media organisations performing their constitutional duties.
The statement further argued that the interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code in relation to news, current affairs, and political programming remains largely subjective, warning against giving any regulatory agency unchecked authority over editorial judgment.
“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,” it said.
The guild also warned that overreach by regulators could encourage self-censorship and weaken the media’s watchdog role.
“By positioning itself as the sole arbiter regarding rigorous questioning or appropriate scrutiny, the NBC opens the door to potential abuse. This approach risks weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices,” the statement added.
Reaffirming the role of the media in democratic governance, the NGE stressed that journalists are expected to interrogate public officials and hold power accountable in the public interest.
“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,” it said.
The guild noted that as Nigeria approaches another election cycle, the responsibility of the media becomes even more critical in ensuring citizens are properly informed.
“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,” it stated.
According to the statement, democracy thrives not on restraint or fear in journalism, but on rigorous questioning and fact-based reporting.
“Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities,” the guild said.
It further emphasised that journalists operate within established ethical standards and should not be treated as offenders for carrying out their professional duties.
“Journalists are not lawbreakers. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that ‘comment is free, but facts are sacred,’” it added.
The NGE therefore urged regulatory authorities to ensure that their actions are guided by transparency, fairness, and clearly defined rules that do not compromise media independence.
“We therefore urge regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent, and fair frameworks that do not undermine the independence of the media,” the statement said.
It further called on the NBC to exercise restraint and ensure proper distinction between misconduct and legitimate journalism.
“The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty,” it noted.
The guild, however, maintained that the Nigerian press remains committed to its constitutional role despite regulatory pressures.
“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,” it concluded.
