Amnesty International Condemns NBC's Authoritarian Directive

Amnesty International has strongly criticized the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for its recent directive, which the organization describes as an attempt to stifle press freedom and impose unlawful restrictions on journalists. The directive, issued on April 17, 2026, targets political broadcasts and current affairs programs, warning against actions that express personal opinions and allegedly intimidating guests while failing to maintain neutrality.

Isa Sanusi, the Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, stated that this move undermines independent media and violates international human rights standards. He emphasized that Nigeria's vibrant broadcast media, with its editorial independence, is crucial for citizens to freely seek and receive impartial information.

Amnesty International further described the NBC's directive as authoritarian and unconstitutional, insisting that the commission lacks the power to dictate how journalists carry out their duties. The organization called for the continuation of independent broadcasting without fear of repercussions from the NBC.