Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has criticised the recent directive by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), warning that it could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
In a post on X on Tuesday, the ADC presidential hopeful said the move signals a troubling pattern at a time when democratic institutions should be strengthened.
Earlier in a statement, the NBC issued a warning to journalists and broadcast stations over what it described as “expression of opinion.”
“Nigeria is drifting dangerously,” Obi said, expressing concern over what he described as attempts to control media narratives.
He said the NBC’s notice to broadcasters, issued ahead of the general elections, raises serious questions about press freedom.
“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration,” he said.
Obi described the media as “the conscience of the nation”, warning that efforts to stifle voices or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation would weaken democracy.
“Attempting to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists… only weakens our already fragile democracy,” he said.
He added that institutions exist to serve the people, not the government.
Obi also linked the issue to broader national challenges, including rising insecurity, economic hardship, and declining public trust.
“Our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results,” he said.
He expressed solidarity with media organisations resisting what he termed an attempt to silence independent voices.
“We must return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms and agencies of government,” he added.
