The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has advised media stations covering the forthcoming general elections against hate speech and divisive remarks capable of inciting the polity during this sensitive period. This advisory was contained in a statement issued by NBC, Director-General (DG), Balarabe Illelah, adding that broadcasters should not allow politicians to use their platforms to promote content capable of leading to a breakdown of law and order.
The statement reads in part, “The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) wishes to again, remind all broadcasters covering the forthcoming general elections to take note of the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and other relevant regulations guiding the broadcast of elections in Nigeria.
“The Commission has observed with deep concerns, how ethics and ethos have been thrown to the winds by politicians, using broadcast media platforms.
“This is against the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which provides that in using materials for news and current affairs programmes, the broadcaster shall avoid hate speech, inflammatory, derogatory, and divisive remarks or allusions.
“The Commission notes that some stations now glamorize these situations on their platforms. The National Broadcasting Commission reiterates that such station shall pay for their professional misdemeanor.”
The statement added that broadcasters are urged to be agents of peace by adhering to the principles of neutrality, accuracy, and responsibility.
