The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised alarm over what it describes as a troubling move by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of expressing personal opinions as facts or bullying guests on air.
In a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild said the reported threat poses a serious risk to press freedom, editorial independence, and democratic accountability.
While acknowledging that the NBC’s intention may be to enforce professionalism and ethical standards, the NGE argued that the Commission’s directive is vague and susceptible to multiple interpretations. According to the Guild, such ambiguity could lead to selective enforcement or misuse against journalists and media organisations performing their legitimate duties.
The NGE further noted that applying the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code—especially in news, current affairs, and political programming—often involves subjective judgment. It warned that positioning the NBC as the sole authority on what constitutes appropriate scrutiny or questioning could open the door to abuse.
The statement cautioned that such an approach risks encouraging self-censorship among broadcasters, weakening investigative journalism, and silencing critical voices in the media landscape.
Reaffirming the role of journalists, the Guild stressed that media professionals are duty-bound to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies, and demand accountability from public officials and other figures. It emphasized that journalism is not meant to provide comfort to interviewees but to serve the public interest.
The Guild also highlighted the importance of robust media scrutiny as the country approaches another election cycle, noting that citizens depend on accurate and comprehensive reporting to make informed decisions.
While calling for professionalism and civility in broadcasting, the NGE maintained that democracy thrives on courageous, responsible, and fact-driven journalism—not timid reporting.
The statement concluded with a call for regulatory bodies to operate within transparent and fair frameworks that respect media independence. It urged the NBC to exercise restraint and impartiality, clearly distinguishing between genuine misconduct and legitimate journalistic practice.
Despite the concerns raised, the Guild affirmed that the Nigerian press would not be intimidated, pledging continued commitment to holding power accountable through fearless reporting.
