The recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has sparked concerns over possible attempts to tighten control of the media.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, condemned the NBC over its recent code of conduct advisory to media practitioners.
Obi described the directive as dangerous and troubling, warning that it reflects a pattern aimed at intimidating the press despite its critical role in democracy.
The former governor said any attempt to gag expression, moderate opinions or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation would only weaken Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
He warned the Tinubu administration against suppressing the media, stressing that the press exists to serve the people, not the government.
“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy. The media is the conscience of the nation”, he said.
Obi noted that attempts to control media narratives were misplaced at a time of worsening insecurity, economic hardship and declining public trust.
“Our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results. Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions”, he said.
He expressed solidarity with media houses and broadcasters resisting what he described as attempts to silence independent voices and restrict free expression.
Obi also urged government institutions to uphold constitutional freedoms and protect the independence of the press, warning that sustained interference could further erode public trust in democratic governance.
