By Rabiu Sanusi
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has urged media outlets to refrain from promoting hate speech and derogatory statements through political programs.
Adamu Salisu, the head of the NBC’s Kano zonal office, issued this directive during a meeting with representatives of the Freedom of Expression team, part of the Gidan Yanci fellowship program, at his office on Tuesday.
Salisu explained that the political program, which allows political critics, known as Sojojin Baka, to confront their opponents, was intentionally designed to prevent physical altercations and political thuggery.
He noted that participants were channeling their frustrations through the political programs rather than engaging in physical attacks.
“Over time, the privilege of expressing political views on these programs has devolved into personal attacks, with some media stations providing a platform for hate speech.
“We are governed by the Nigerian Broadcasting Codes, and all radio stations possess a copy. Our role is to uphold these codes, which are currently in their sixth edition. The seventh edition, containing new principles not included in the previous ones, will be launched this year,”
Salisu confirmed that unprofessional journalists, political critics, and political officeholders are the main contributors to this issue.
He commended the Gidan Yanci Fellowship program for its efforts to reform political programming in Kano and expressed satisfaction with Gidan Yanci’s work, which he believes will help educate political critics about the dangers of hate speech and its societal impact.
“They must understand that unverified statements or opinions could result in imprisonment. I am pleased that the public now recognizes their right to legally challenge defamatory statements. I hope this awareness extends not only to individuals but also to the media outlets where such statements are made,” he added.
The NBC has committed to partnering with Gidan Yanci to continue raising awareness among political presenters and critics. Salisu mentioned that, aside from political interference, a court ruling that prevents the NBC from imposing fines on media stations has been a significant obstacle in addressing violations of the NBC codes.
Furthermore, Salisu clarified that the NBC lacks the authority to prosecute politicians who make derogatory comments; their jurisdiction is limited to media stations. The NBC has been issuing warnings to those who breach its regulations.
On behalf of the Freedom of Expression Team, Aminu Abdullahi Ibrahim pledged full support to the NBC in achieving its objectives.
He expressed his delight at the NBC’s willingness to collaborate with them to effect positive changes in political programming.
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