SERAP, Editors Sue NBC Over Unconstitutional Directive

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have jointly filed a lawsuit against the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in the Federal High Court in Lagos on April 24, 2026. They are challenging a recent directive from the NBC that cautions broadcasters against failing to maintain neutrality.

The plaintiffs, represented by prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, argue that this directive violates the 6th edition of the Nigeria Broadcast Code and constitutes an unconstitutional threat to press freedom. They warn that unless the court intervenes, the NBC will continue to use these provisions to intimidate journalists, leading to self-censorship and undermining the media's watchdog role, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to declare the relevant provisions of the broadcast code unconstitutional and to restrain the NBC from enforcing sanctions based on these provisions.