It is with great concern that we write as an independent media to express our worry over the recent sanctioning of Channels Television by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in Nigeria.
It is truly disheartening to see the continued suppression of the free press in our country by government.
The role of the media is crucial to the success of any democratic society. It is through the media that the people are informed about government policies and actions. It is also the media’s responsibility to serve as a check on the excesses of government officials.
The reason for sanctioning Channels TV as orchestrated by the Office of the President elect, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was due to a petition filed by his media aide over an interview conducted on Seun Okinbaloye’s show, despite the anchor repeatedly cautioning the guest on the show.
This action by the NBC does not only create fear but also threatens the media’s effort to create an environment for the pursuit of truth. It completely frustrates the efforts to build a society that is truly democratic, transparent and accountable.
Such an action by the office of the President-elect against independent media, portends grave danger for when he finally assumes the reins of power from May 29.
The NBC should strive to protect the rights of the media and work towards creating an environment that fosters free press. What the organisation has just done sets a dangerous precedent against freedom of speech and expression in Nigeria.
It not only creates fear among other independent media outlets, it also limits the ability of Nigerians to come on TV and express their views freely. In a democratic society, it is crucial that the media continues to act as a watchdog to hold those in power accountable for their actions.
Moment Seun Okinbaloye cautioned Datti who said Nigeria's Democracy will end on May 29. ChannelsTV was heavily fined by NBC for this.
@seunokin
@dattibabaahmed@channelstv@nbcgovngNote: Quest Times does not support violence. pic.twitter.com/egZBKzK1Hn
— Inside Sources (@InsideSources01) April 3, 2023
NBC with this move is impinging free speech, democracy and social cohesion.
Lastly, we wish to express that the office of the President-elect notes that the media plays a significant role in holding those in power accountable for their actions, and any attempt to suppress them is a threat to democracy. This act does not send a positive message to the people of Nigeria, as this is assumed to have been carried out on the directives of the incoming President.
The media should not be seen as an opponent of the government, but rather a partner in the quest for transparency and accountability.
We believe that the matter could have been better managed to avoid being seen as using political power against the media.
We urge the NBC to take a critical look at the events that led to the action and should this happen in the future, we hope that the regulator works towards finding a better resolution than sanctions and fines against a business that provides jobs and contributes to the economy of our great nation.