SERAP Demands Withdrawal of NBC Directive, Calls It Threat to Press Freedom
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a strong demand for President Bola Tinubu to immediately order the withdrawal of a recent directive from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The organization describes this directive as unlawful and a significant threat to press freedom in Nigeria, raising alarms over potential censorship and suppression of journalistic expression.
Urgent Call to Action and Legal Ultimatum
In a formal letter dated April 18, 2026, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP has called on President Tinubu to direct the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, and the NBC to reverse what it terms a restrictive notice. The group warns that this directive represents a dangerous attempt to impose prior censorship on the media, which it insists violates constitutional guarantees of free speech and undermines democratic principles.
SERAP has urged the federal government to refrain from imposing prior censorship on journalists and broadcast stations, emphasizing the critical need to allow media practitioners to carry out their constitutional duties without interference. The organization has set a 48-hour ultimatum for a response, threatening legal action if the government fails to act, stating, "We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 hours. If we do not hear from your government and the NBC, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal steps to compel compliance."
Background and Controversy Over Broadcasting Code
The controversy stems from a notice issued by the National Broadcasting Commission on April 17, 2026, which cited increasing breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The NBC had warned broadcasters against practices such as airing personal opinions, intimidating guests, and failing to maintain neutrality. However, SERAP has dismissed these provisions as vague, overly broad, and unconstitutional, arguing that they conflict with both domestic and international human rights standards.
According to SERAP, "The Nigerian Constitution and international human rights law protect both the absolute right to hold opinions and the qualified right to express ideas of all kinds." The group has specifically criticized Section 1.10.3 of the Broadcasting Code, stating that it amounts to prior restraint that undermines commentary, analysis, and value judgments—key elements of journalism and democratic engagement.
Potential Impact on Media and Elections
SERAP has warned that such regulatory measures could create a chilling effect on journalists and broadcasters, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections, where media freedom is considered critical for transparent and fair processes. The organization expressed concern that "The threat of sanctions for broadly defined conduct risks arbitrary enforcement and could suppress critical reporting," potentially stifling public discourse and accountability.
In addition to demanding the withdrawal of the directive, SERAP has called for urgent amendments to sections of the Broadcasting Code to align with constitutional protections and global standards on freedom of expression. This move aims to safeguard press freedom and ensure that media can operate without undue restrictions, fostering a healthy democratic environment in Nigeria.
