The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as a veiled attempt to stifle free speech and impose censorship on the media.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Achike Chude, and released on Monday, the union expressed grave concern and utter disappointment over the NBC’s April 17, 2026 formal notice, which warned broadcasters to adhere to strict and uncompromised compliance, amid alleged breaches of professionalism.
The NUJ argued that the directive constitutes a direct assault on editorial independence, particularly the NBC’s caution against anchors expressing personal opinions and its insistence on a crisis-free presentation style.
According to the union, such measures interfere with the internal editorial processes of media organisations and undermine the essence of journalism.
“Journalism, especially in current affairs and political analysis, requires robust engagement. To deny presenters the right to analyse and contextualise news is to reduce the media to a mere mouthpiece,” the statement said.
The union further criticised what it described as vague regulatory provisions being deployed as instruments of intimidation. It noted that classifying alleged infractions as ‘Class B’ offences, punishable by heavy fines or suspension, creates a climate of fear that encourages self-censorship among journalists.
“This regime of fear discourages journalists from asking hard questions for fear of being labelled unprofessional or hostile by a regulatory body that is increasingly perceived as a political tool,” the NUJ stated.
Invoking constitutional provisions, the union reminded the NBC that Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to hold opinions and disseminate information without interference.
It stressed that no regulatory code should supersede the provisions of the Constitution.
The NUJ declared solidarity with broadcasters and journalists nationwide, vowing not to stand by while what it described as the shrinking of civic space continues under the guise of regulation.
The union called on the NBC to abandon what it termed threats and instead engage media stakeholders in constructive dialogue. It also urged the government to ensure that regulatory bodies are not used to harass or silence the press.
Calling for resilience within the profession, the NUJ charged journalists and broadcasters to remain resolute, professional, and fearless. It emphasised that their allegiance is to the public and the truth.
“The media is the watchdog of society, not the lapdog of the government or opposition. Any attempt to silence it is an attack on Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement.
