The former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has criticised the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)’s warning about enforcing stricter compliance with its broadcasting Code.
The NBC, in a notice issued last week, warned broadcast stations to adhere strictly to its Code, citing growing ethical lapses in news and political programming. It noted that the trend risks eroding public trust and heightening tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that enforcement would be uncompromising.
Reacting on Tuesday, Obi expressed concern that Nigeria is drifting in a dangerous direction. “At a time when our nation should be strengthening its vital democratic institutions, we are witnessing a pattern that shows the opposite. The recent notice by the National Broadcasting Commission, especially at this critical time of the general elections, is very troubling,” he said.
According to him, a free and responsible media should not be seen as an enemy by any administration, particularly one that claims to have fought for democracy.
“The media is the conscience of the nation,” Obi stated, adding that attempts to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weaken Nigeria’s already fragile democracy.
He argued that institutions are meant to serve the people, not the government. “At a time when insecurity is on the rise, young Nigerians are losing faith in the country, and the economy continues to fail the average citizen. Our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results.”
Obi emphasised that Nigeria does not need tighter control but stronger institutions, while expressing solidarity with media organisations and broadcasters resisting what he described as attempts to silence independent voices and restrict free expression.
He further urged the country to return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms of government, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to endanger its democracy.
