Amnesty faults NBC directive, warns against media clampdown

Amnesty International has criticised a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as an attempt to stifle press freedom and impose unlawful restrictions on journalists.

The directive, dated April 17, 2026, and titled “formal notice to broadcasters,” reportedly targets political programming, including anchors of current affairs shows.

In a statement, Amnesty said the move introduces “unduly restrictive and invasive controls” on media operations and could pressure organisations into self-censorship.

“The NBC has no power or right to dictate how journalists carry out their professional duties,” the group said, adding that the notice appears designed to silence critical voices.

The organisation stressed that Nigeria’s broadcast media plays a vital role in enabling citizens to “freely seek, debate, receive and impart information and ideas.”

Amnesty cited international legal frameworks, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantee freedom of expression.

It further accused authorities of using regulatory mechanisms to suppress independent journalism, calling for an immediate reversal of the directive.

“The latest threat issued by NBC is authoritarian and unconstitutional,” the statement added.

Amnesty urged journalists to remain steadfast, insisting they must continue to operate “fiercely and independently, without fear.”

The NBC has yet to respond publicly to the criticism.