2023:NBC warns broadcast stations about divisive news and hate speech.

Ibekimi Oriamaja Reports.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a warning to stations not to broadcast sensitive materials that are detrimental to national unity.

This was stated in a statement issued on Friday by its Director General, Mallam Balarabe Shehu Ilelah.

In addition, the Commission reminded broadcasters of the importance of adhering to the code and ethics when performing their duties.

Ilelah warned that any organization that violated the Nigeria Broadcast Code would be held accountable.

“The National Broadcasting Commission has observed, with concern, the recent misuse of the airwaves by various groups in some broadcasting Stations to propagate incendiary materials,” the statement reads.

“While appreciating the importance of educating, informing, and enlightening the public on issues concerning our national development,” the Commission writes, “the Commission would like to take this opportunity to advise broadcasters to be cautious in the handling of News and Current Affairs programs by displaying the necessary professionalism.”

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As a result, the Commission asks Broadcasters to:

Guests and/or analysts should be advised not to use divisive rhetoric on their platforms in order to make their points.

“Ensure that all news/current affairs programming adheres to the Nigerian Broadcasting Code.”

“Consider their social responsibility requirements carefully.

“As a result, the commission reminds broadcasters to adhere to the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, specifically those listed below:

5.3.3(b): When using political materials for news and current affairs programs, the broadcaster must refrain from using Hate Speech, Inflammatory, Derogatory, or Divisive remarks or allusions.

“5.4.19f): The Broadcaster shall not transmit divisive materials that could endanger or jeopardize Nigeria’s invisibility and inseparability as a Sovereign State.”

5.5.6: To protect against potentially objectionable content, the broadcaster must have a delay mechanism in place.

“Please remember that each Broadcast Station is responsible for the content it transmits and will be held accountable for any content that violates the Nigeria Broadcast Code.”