Amnesty International has strongly criticised the recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, describing it as an unlawful attempt to suppress press freedom and intimidate journalists across Nigeria.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) platform, the human rights organisation condemned what it described as a repressive “formal notice to broadcasters” dated April 17, 2026, warning that the move threatens media independence and democratic accountability.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the latest outrageous and desperate attempt by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to gag journalists and the media through unlawful and repressive ‘formal notice to broadcasters’ dated 17 April 2026. The commission has no power or right to tell journalists how to do their job,” the organisation stated.
According to Amnesty International, the directive specifically targets political broadcasts and anchors of current affairs and political programmes, imposing what it described as intrusive restrictions capable of encouraging self-censorship within the media space.
“The notice which targets political broadcasts and anchors of current affairs and political programmes places unduly restrictive and invasive controls on the media and journalists.
“The bizarre notice issued by NBC is an attempt to pressure journalists and media organizations into self-censorship,” the statement added.
The organisation further highlighted the importance of Nigeria’s broadcast media in strengthening democracy and safeguarding citizens’ right to information.
“Nigeria’s vibrant broadcast media whose editorial content is independent enable people to freely seek, debate, receive and impart information and ideas as envisaged by the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,” Amnesty International noted.
Calling on Nigerian authorities to reverse the directive, Amnesty International warned against using regulatory bodies to silence dissenting voices and restrict public discourse.
“The Nigerian authorities must to stop using the NBC in an unrelenting quest to silence journalists and the media organisations that are crucial to ensuring independent and diverse media space that fulfill people’s right to information,” the organisation said.
Describing the directive as unconstitutional, Amnesty International urged broadcasters to remain resolute in carrying out their professional duties.
“The latest threat issued by NBC is authoritarian and unconstitutional. Broadcasters must continue doing their job fiercely and independently without fear,” the statement concluded.
The development adds to growing concerns among stakeholders about media freedom in Nigeria, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of future electoral processes.
