The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from using its recently issued 'Formal Notice' to threaten, sanction, or punish broadcast stations and presenters for expressing personal opinions as facts, bullying or intimidating guests, or failing to maintain neutrality.
Justice Daniel Osiagor granted an interim injunction on Monday following arguments on an ex parte motion filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE). The case was argued by their lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika.
The ruling stems from a lawsuit challenging what SERAP and NGE described as an arbitrary and unlawful attempt by the NBC to sanction broadcasters for alleged violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The plaintiffs asked the court to determine whether the NBC's actions were inconsistent with the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights obligations.
In a joint statement, SERAP and NGE welcomed the landmark ruling, calling it a significant victory for freedom of expression, media freedom, and the rule of law. They emphasized that the court's decision affirms the principle that regulatory powers must be exercised within constitutional limits.
Amnesty International Nigeria also hailed the ruling, describing it as a boost for free expression and media independence. The group noted that the interim injunction marks an important step toward protecting journalists and media organisations from regulatory overreach. However, Amnesty cautioned that the order is interim and does not finally resolve the dispute, urging the NBC to withdraw the directive entirely and avoid measures that restrict press freedom.
The organization further called on authorities to ensure that journalists and broadcasters can perform their duties without intimidation or undue interference.
