The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed concern over the National Broadcasting Commission’s (NBC) reported threat to sanction broadcast presenters accused of presenting opinions as facts or bullying guests during on-air discussions.
This is contained in a statement jointly signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, on Tuesday in Abuja.
The Guild described the move as “dangerous and injurious to journalism,” adding that it amounted to an assault on press freedom, editorial independence, and democratic accountability.
While acknowledging the NBC’s intention to promote professionalism and ethical standards in broadcasting, the NGE said the Commission’s statement was vague and broadly worded, making it open to multiple interpretations.
According to the Guild, such ambiguity could lead to misuse, selective application, or misinterpretation against journalists and media organizations performing their legitimate duties.
“The interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across news, current affairs, and political programmes is inherently subjective.
“By positioning itself as the sole arbiter of what constitutes rigorous questioning or appropriate scrutiny, the NBC opens the door to potential abuse,” the NGE officials said.
The NGE warned that the approach risked weaponizing the broadcasting code, inducing self-censorship among broadcasters, stifling journalistic inquiry, and silencing critical voices.
“We reiterate that the role of broadcast presenters and journalists, particularly during interviews, is to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies, and demand clarity in the public interest.
“Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable.
“As the country moves closer to another election cycle, there is no better time for the media to intensify its watchdog role.
“The scrutiny of political actors is essential. Citizens rely on the media for accurate and comprehensive information to make informed decisions and carry out their civic responsibilities.”
The NGE officials added that this responsibility demands that journalists ask tough, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest.
“While we acknowledge the need for professionalism and civility in broadcasting, we must not lose sight of a fundamental truth.
“Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities.
“Journalists are not lawbreakers. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that ‘comment is free, but facts are sacred.’”
The Guild urged regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent, and fair frameworks that do not undermine media independence.
“The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty.
“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 favor.”
