The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed strong concern over a reported plan by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction broadcast presenters accused of presenting personal opinions as facts or engaging in the bullying of guests during live programmes.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the development as “dangerous and injurious to journalism,” warning that it poses a serious risk to press freedom in Nigeria.
The statement said the move amounted to “a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability.”
While acknowledging that the NBC may be acting to promote professionalism and uphold ethical broadcasting standards, the Guild faulted what it described as vague language in the regulator’s position.
It warned that the lack of clarity could lead to inconsistent or selective enforcement against journalists and media organisations.
According to the NGE, interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code particularly in relation to news, current affairs, and political programming remains highly subjective.
It cautioned that giving the NBC final authority to determine what constitutes acceptable scrutiny could create room for abuse.
“This approach risks weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices,” the Guild stated.
Reaffirming the central role of journalism in democratic governance, the body stressed that holding public officials accountable is a core responsibility of the media.
“Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable,” it said.
The Guild also highlighted the importance of robust media engagement as Nigeria approaches another election cycle, noting that citizens depend heavily on journalists for credible and accurate information.
It stressed that this responsibility requires reporters to ask difficult and sometimes uncomfortable questions in the public interest.
“This responsibility demands that journalists ask tough, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest,” the statement added.
While maintaining support for professionalism, civility, and ethical conduct in broadcasting, the NGE cautioned against measures that could weaken journalism’s watchdog role.
It argued that democratic systems are strengthened by fearless reporting rather than restrained inquiry.
“Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities,” it said.
The Guild also reiterated that journalists operate under established ethical standards, emphasising the principle that while opinions may differ, factual accuracy must remain non-negotiable.
“Comment is free, but facts are sacred,” the statement noted.
It further urged the NBC to apply broadcasting regulations with fairness, transparency, and restraint, warning against actions that could be perceived as targeting the press.
“The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty,” it stated.
The Guild vowed resistance to any attempt to intimidate or silence the media, insisting that journalists will continue to perform their duties without fear.
“In the face of such threats, the Nigerian press will not be intimidated. We remain resolute in our commitment to ask tough questions, report facts, and provide analysis without fear or favour,” it said.
