Atiku slams NBC advisory as threat to press freedom

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised a recent election-related advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, warning that it could undermine press freedom and restrict free expression in Nigeria ahead of the polls.

In a statement on his X post on Saturday, Atiku said: “The Code of Conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission is yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria.”

He argued that Nigeria’s media landscape has earned global respect and should not be subjected to what he sees as repeated regulatory pressure during election periods.

According to him, such interventions risk distorting the role of the media rather than protecting ethical standards.

Atiku added: “Our media industry has grown into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism.” He expressed concern that the timing of the advisory suggests a broader attempt to control political narratives rather than strengthen journalistic integrity.

He further stressed that ethical standards should not be selectively applied, stating: “Ethical standards are not seasonal tools to be weaponised during campaigns, they are constant obligations.”

He also voiced solidarity with broadcasters and journalists resisting regulatory pressure, warning against what he described as creeping censorship. “I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he said.

Atiku concluded by cautioning that excessive regulation of broadcasting during election periods could weaken democratic accountability and reduce public trust in the electoral process.

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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