The Digest:
Amnesty International has strongly condemned the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over its directive to broadcasters, describing it as an "outrageous and desperate attempt" to gag journalists. The global rights organisation said the commission lacks the authority to dictate how journalists carry out their professional duties. Amnesty's Nigeria Executive Director, Isa Sanusi, called on authorities to stop using the NBC to silence independent journalism, urging broadcasters to remain steadfast and continue their work "fiercely and independently without fear."
Key Points:
- Amnesty says the NBC directive imposes unduly restrictive controls on the media.
- The move appears designed to pressure journalists into self-censorship.
- Press freedom and democratic accountability are under threat, Amnesty warns.
- The directive targets political broadcasts and current affairs anchors.
- Amnesty describes the NBC's action as authoritarian and unconstitutional.
Broadcasters face a choice between complying with NBC rules or resisting what Amnesty calls press freedom violations.
Sources: Daily Trust
