Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has alleged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is taking steps to stifle media freedom as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the remarks while reacting to a recent code of conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), which he described as an attempt to restrict free expression and limit the independence of the media. The former vice president argued that the directive raises serious concerns about the state of press freedom in Nigeria and the broader implications for democratic governance.
In a strongly worded statement, Atiku said the advisory represents “yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria.” He maintained that such regulatory measures, particularly when introduced in the lead-up to elections, could undermine the ability of journalists and media organisations to operate freely and hold those in power accountable.
The NBC advisory, which outlines guidelines for broadcasters, has not been fully detailed in public discourse, but it has sparked debate among media practitioners, civil society organisations, and political stakeholders. While regulatory bodies often issue such directives to ensure compliance with professional standards, critics argue that the timing and tone of the latest advisory could have unintended consequences for press freedom.
Atiku, a prominent opposition figure, praised Nigeria’s media industry, describing it as a resilient and globally respected institution. He noted that the country’s journalists and broadcasters have built a reputation for professionalism despite operating in challenging environments.
“Our media industry has grown into a formidable institution, respected globally for its resilience and professionalism,” he said, emphasizing the role of the press in strengthening democracy and promoting transparency.
However, he expressed concern that regulatory interventions like the NBC advisory could erode these gains. According to him, similar directives have historically emerged during politically sensitive periods, particularly in the run-up to elections, raising questions about their underlying intent.
“It is therefore alarming that, each time elections approach, the NBC resorts to heavy-handed directives that do more to silence dissent than to uphold ethical journalism,” Atiku stated. He argued that rather than promoting responsible broadcasting, such measures risk creating an environment where critical voices are suppressed.
The former vice president also declared his support for media organisations and platforms that he said are resisting what he described as creeping censorship. He stressed that ethical standards in journalism should be consistently applied and not used selectively as tools during political campaigns.
“Let it be clear: ethical standards are not seasonal tools to be weaponised during campaigns; they are constant obligations,” he said.
Atiku further questioned the timing of the advisory, suggesting that it reflects broader concerns about the government’s approach to managing public discourse ahead of the elections. He warned that any attempt to control narratives could undermine the credibility of the electoral process and weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
“The timing and tone of these regulations expose a deeper agenda,” he said. “It signals a government more interested in controlling narratives than permitting a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.”
His comments have added to ongoing discussions about the balance between regulation and freedom in Nigeria’s media landscape. While the NBC is mandated to ensure that broadcasters adhere to professional and ethical standards, critics often argue that excessive regulation can hinder the independence of the press.
Media analysts note that tensions between regulatory authorities and the press are not new in Nigeria. Over the years, there have been debates about the extent to which government agencies should influence media operations, particularly during election periods when information dissemination plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
Supporters of stricter regulations, however, argue that guidelines are necessary to prevent the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and content that could incite violence, especially in a politically charged environment. They contend that the NBC’s role is to maintain order and ensure responsible broadcasting in line with national laws and international standards.
Despite these differing perspectives, Atiku’s remarks highlight the sensitivity surrounding media regulation in the context of upcoming elections. As political activities begin to intensify, the role of the media in informing the public, facilitating debate, and ensuring accountability is expected to come under increased scrutiny.
Observers believe that how the government, regulatory bodies, and media organisations navigate these challenges will have significant implications for Nigeria’s democratic process. Ensuring a balance between maintaining professional standards and protecting freedom of expression remains a key issue as the country prepares for another electoral cycle.
For now, Atiku’s criticism has brought renewed attention to the NBC advisory and its potential impact, with stakeholders across the political and media landscape expected to continue engaging in discussions about the future of press freedom in Nigeria.
