SERAP Gives Tinubu 48 Hours to Reverse NBC Directive on Media Restrictions

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The Socio Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in what it described as an unlawful directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission restricting broadcasters and journalists.

In a letter dated April 18, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP urged the President to direct the Minister of Information, Mohammed Malagi, and the NBC to withdraw the notice within 48 hours or face legal action. The organisation warned that the directive poses a serious threat to press freedom and democratic engagement in Nigeria.

The controversial notice, issued on April 17, cited alleged breaches of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and warned of sanctions against stations and presenters. It targeted expressions such as personal opinions, alleged intimidation of guests, and failure to maintain neutrality in political and current affairs programming.

SERAP argued that the directive amounts to prior censorship and violates the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as international human rights laws. According to the group, journalism inherently involves analysis, commentary, and value judgments, all of which are protected forms of expression.

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The organisation further criticized specific provisions of the Broadcasting Code, particularly those restricting presenters from expressing personal opinions. It described them as vague, overbroad, and open to arbitrary interpretation, warning that such rules could create a chilling effect on journalists and media organisations.

SERAP also maintained that the directive undermines the media’s role as a watchdog, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections. It stressed that limiting open debate and diverse viewpoints could weaken transparency, accountability, and credible electoral processes.

While acknowledging the need to prevent misuse of broadcast platforms, SERAP insisted that any regulatory measures must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate. It called for urgent amendments to the Broadcasting Code to ensure compliance with constitutional and international standards.