Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, describing it as an attempt to stifle press freedom ahead of future elections.
In a post on his X handle, Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party and is now aligned with the African Democratic Congress, said the directive reflects a broader agenda to control public discourse.
“The timing and tone of these regulations expose a deeper intention. This is about controlling narratives rather than promoting a free and transparent electoral process,” he said.
He expressed solidarity with broadcasters and media practitioners, warning against what he described as “creeping censorship.”
“Our media industry is globally respected for its resilience and professionalism. It is worrying that each election cycle is accompanied by heavy-handed directives that silence dissent instead of strengthening ethical journalism,” Atiku added.
The NBC had earlier raised concerns over what it described as rising violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in political and current affairs programmes.
It cautioned stations against practices such as intimidation of guests, biased presentations, and misuse of broadcast platforms.
The commission said it would enforce stricter compliance, citing provisions that prohibit presenters from expressing personal opinions as fact and mandate fairness and balance in the treatment of public issues.
It also warned against the use of inflammatory or divisive language, noting that breaches have been recorded across political divides.
Under the new directive, the NBC stated that anchors or presenters found guilty of bullying guests, denying opposing views, or presenting opinions as facts would face sanctions.
Atiku, however, insisted that ethical journalism should not be selectively enforced, stressing that media freedom remains critical to democracy and credible elections in Nigeria.