Atiku Condemns NBC Advisory as ‘Pre-Election Censorship,’ Warns of Threat to Media Freedom

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, describing it as an attempt to suppress press freedom and control public discourse ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections.

The controversy follows a directive from the regulatory body cautioning broadcasters, presenters and media organisations to strictly adhere to provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly in political and current affairs programming. The commission warned against presenting personal opinions as facts, intimidating guests during interviews and failing to ensure balance in coverage, adding that it would enforce stricter compliance as the country moves closer to another electoral cycle.

According to the commission, the advisory became necessary due to what it described as a growing pattern of professional breaches across broadcast platforms. It emphasised that media organisations must uphold fairness, accuracy and responsibility, particularly in avoiding misinformation, inciting content and narratives capable of undermining national stability during politically sensitive periods.

However, Atiku Abubakar, a leading opposition figure and former presidential candidate, rejected the directive, arguing that its timing and tone raise serious concerns about democratic freedoms. In a public statement, he characterised the advisory as a troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression, warning that such measures could weaken the independence of the press at a critical moment in Nigeria’s political timeline.

He further argued that Nigeria’s media industry has evolved into a resilient and globally respected institution, and should not be subjected to what he described as heavy-handed regulatory interference, especially during election periods. According to him, repeated issuance of strict directives by the commission whenever elections approach suggests a pattern that risks undermining open discourse rather than strengthening journalistic standards.

Atiku also questioned the broader intent behind the advisory, suggesting that it reflects an effort to shape or control political narratives ahead of the 2027 general elections. He maintained that ethical standards in journalism should be consistently applied and not selectively enforced during campaign seasons, warning that such selective enforcement could distort democratic processes.

“I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he said, aligning himself with journalists and media organisations who have expressed concern over the directive.

The development comes at a time of increasing political activity in Nigeria, with early alignments and coalition-building already underway ahead of the next general elections. Opposition figures, including Atiku, have been engaging in consultations aimed at consolidating political strength, raising the stakes for media coverage and public debate in the coming months.

Media analysts say the disagreement highlights a longstanding tension between regulatory oversight and press freedom in Nigeria. While the broadcasting commission is legally mandated to enforce standards and ensure responsible journalism, critics often argue that its interventions can be perceived as restrictive, particularly when they coincide with politically sensitive periods.

Supporters of the commission’s position contend that the advisory is consistent with its role in maintaining professionalism within the broadcast industry. They argue that in an era of rapid information dissemination and rising misinformation, stricter adherence to ethical standards is necessary to protect public interest and ensure credible electoral processes.

On the other hand, critics, including Atiku and some civil society voices, warn that excessive regulation, especially if perceived as selective or politically motivated, could discourage robust debate and limit the media’s watchdog role. They argue that a free and independent press is essential for transparency, accountability and voter education, particularly in the lead-up to national elections.

The commission had indicated that sanctions could be applied to broadcasters who violate the code, reinforcing its commitment to enforcement. It also stressed that presenters who express personal opinions as facts or deny fair hearing to opposing views would be held accountable under existing regulations.

This latest exchange underscores broader questions about the balance between regulation and freedom in Nigeria’s media space. As the country gradually approaches another election cycle, the role of the media and the extent of regulatory control over it are expected to remain central issues in political and public discourse.

For now, the disagreement reflects deeper concerns about democratic governance, freedom of expression and the responsibilities of both regulators and journalists in shaping an informed electorate. Observers say how these tensions are managed in the coming months could significantly influence public trust in both the media and the electoral process.

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