CITAD condemns NBC directive on broadcasters
CITAD Criticizes NBC Directive on Broadcasting
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has voiced strong opposition to a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to broadcasters across Nigeria, warning that it poses a threat to press freedom and civic space.
In a statement released on Sunday, Executive Director Y. Z. Ya’u characterized the directive as a dangerous escalation in the ongoing erosion of freedom of expression and media independence in Nigeria. CITAD asserts that, while the directive is framed as a regulatory measure, it raises significant concerns regarding its implications for democratic accountability and digital rights.
“This directive represents a dangerous escalation in the ongoing erosion of press freedom and civic space in the country,” the statement indicated.
The organization emphasized the importance of media as a crucial platform for citizens to question governmental authority, particularly amid Nigeria’s complex socio-political challenges. It raised alarms about the directive’s vague standards, which CITAD argues could be misused to silence dissenting voices.
“The introduction of vague and subjective standards could be weaponized to silence critical voices,” the statement read. It further warned that attempts to regulate how broadcasters engage with guests and analyze issues may foster self-censorship and fear within the media landscape.
CITAD also criticized the NBC for its lack of clarity in defining the concerns underlying the directive, arguing that this ambiguity invites arbitrary interpretation. “These concepts are left at the level of mere ideas without a shared understanding, opening the door for arbitrary application,” the statement noted.
The organization stressed the necessity for such regulations to be developed through thorough consultations with relevant stakeholders, rather than being imposed unilaterally. “Such an important notice should be the outcome of a consultative process involving relevant stakeholders, not a unilateral decision from a regulatory body,” it stated.
CITAD cautioned that the directive could represent a broader attempt to encroach upon the flow of information in both traditional and digital media. “Any attempt to stifle media freedom inevitably affects the broader digital civic space,” the organization warned, noting that journalists, activists, young people, and marginalized groups may be disproportionately affected.
Emphasizing the importance of open debate and the free exchange of ideas in a democratic society, CITAD expressed concern over efforts to suppress critical engagement. “Democratic societies thrive on a plurality of opinions and robust debate,” it stated, warning that efforts to impose artificial neutrality could weaken public discourse.
CITAD called on the federal government to retract the directive and initiate dialogue with media professionals, civil society groups, and digital rights organizations. “NBC cannot sit in its boardroom and unilaterally decide what should be allowed on the airwaves,” the statement concluded.
The organization urged regulatory agencies to ensure their actions align with Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards concerning freedom of expression. As the country approaches another election cycle, CITAD underscored that safeguarding media independence is essential for preserving the integrity of the democratic process. “Any attempt to curtail press freedom at this critical moment risks compromising the integrity of the democratic process,” it added.
