Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria’s broadcasting regulator has issued a sweeping warning to television and radio stations across the country, cautioning that violations of professional and ethical standards in political programming will attract strict sanctions as the nation moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), in a series of coordinated statements released on April 18, 2026, raised alarm over what it described as a noticeable decline in professionalism across news, current affairs, and political programmes. The regulator said it had observed a sustained increase in breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in politically sensitive broadcasts, warning that the trend could undermine public trust and heighten tensions ahead of the polls.
According to the commission, several broadcast platforms have increasingly deviated from their core responsibility of delivering accurate, balanced, and fair information to the public. The NBC pointed specifically to a pattern in which programme anchors and presenters inject personal opinions into discussions, sometimes presenting them as established facts, while also failing to give equitable representation to opposing viewpoints.
The regulator expressed concern that such conduct violates key provisions of the broadcasting code, which mandates neutrality, fairness, and professionalism in the handling of issues of public interest. It warned that these lapses are especially dangerous in the context of political programming, where public perception and electoral stability can be significantly influenced by media narratives.
In its directive, the NBC made clear that it would enforce what it described as strict and uncompromised compliance with all provisions of the code, particularly those relating to fairness, accuracy, balance, and the prohibition of hate speech or inciting content. The commission stressed that compliance is mandatory and not subject to discretion, signaling a tougher regulatory stance in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
A central issue highlighted by the commission is the conduct of presenters and anchors during live broadcasts. The NBC stated that any broadcaster found to have expressed personal opinions as facts, bullied or intimidated guests, denied fair hearing to opposing views, or otherwise compromised neutrality would be deemed to have committed a Class B breach under the code.
Such breaches, the commission noted, could attract regulatory sanctions, which under existing broadcasting rules may include fines, suspension of programmes, or, in severe cases, revocation of licences. The NBC emphasized that editorial responsibility rests entirely with the broadcaster and cannot be transferred to guests or external contributors, even during live programming.
The warning also addressed the broader role of political actors in shaping broadcast content. The commission said it had observed increasing misuse of media platforms by politicians and their representatives, who often use broadcast programmes to disseminate content that may be inflammatory, divisive, or capable of inciting public disorder.
The NBC warned that such practices not only breach the broadcasting code but also pose a threat to national unity and democratic stability. It noted that hate speech, personal attacks, and unverified claims have become more prevalent in political discourse aired on television and radio, raising concerns about their potential impact on public order and electoral integrity.
The commission’s intervention comes as Nigeria gradually enters a politically sensitive period, with early alignments and campaigns expected to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. Historically, election cycles in the country have been accompanied by heightened political rhetoric, making the role of the media particularly critical in shaping public opinion and maintaining social cohesion.
Regulators have long maintained that the media must act as a gatekeeper of information, ensuring that political debates are conducted within the bounds of professionalism and respect for diverse viewpoints. The NBC reiterated this position, urging broadcasters to strengthen internal editorial controls and ensure that all political and public affairs programmes adhere strictly to established standards.
As Nigeria enters a critical electoral period, the airwaves must not amplify tension or propagate misinformation, the commission stated, emphasizing the need for responsible discourse and credible information dissemination.
Beyond immediate compliance, the NBC framed its warning as part of a broader effort to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process. By enforcing stricter adherence to the broadcasting code, the regulator aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and reduce the risk of conflict that could arise from unchecked political messaging.
However, the directive has not been without criticism. Some political figures and commentators have previously argued that similar advisories from the commission could be interpreted as attempts to restrict media freedom. While such reactions were not formally addressed in the latest statement, the NBC maintained that its actions are rooted in its statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting and protect public interest.
Under Nigerian law, the commission is responsible for issuing broadcast licences, monitoring content, and enforcing compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. Its oversight extends to all radio and television stations, both public and private, across the country.
Industry analysts note that the renewed emphasis on compliance reflects growing concerns about the role of media in shaping political narratives in an era of rapid information dissemination. With the rise of digital platforms and increased competition among broadcasters, there is mounting pressure on media organisations to balance audience engagement with adherence to professional standards.
The NBC’s latest warning suggests that regulators are prepared to take a more proactive approach in addressing these challenges, particularly as political activities begin to intensify. By placing broadcasters on formal notice, the commission is signaling that it will closely monitor content and take enforcement actions where necessary.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace, the spotlight is likely to remain on the media’s role in promoting informed public discourse while avoiding the pitfalls of bias, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric. For broadcasters, the message from the regulator is clear: adherence to the code is not optional, and failure to comply could carry significant consequences.
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