The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on President Bola Tinubu to order the withdrawal of a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, describing it as unlawful and a threat to press freedom.

In a letter dated April 18, 2026, the group urged the president to instruct the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, and the NBC to immediately rescind the notice, which warned broadcast stations and presenters against actions such as expressing personal opinions, allegedly intimidating guests and failing to maintain neutrality.

The organisation said the directive, issued on April 17, signals an attempt to impose prior censorship on the media and restrict journalists from performing their constitutional duties.

SERAP argued that the notice could undermine democratic engagement, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, by limiting access to diverse viewpoints and discouraging open political debate.

According to the group, the provisions cited by the NBC in the Nigeria Broadcasting Code are vague and overly broad, making them susceptible to arbitrary interpretation and enforcement. It added that such restrictions could create a chilling effect on journalists and media organisations.

The letter, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, warned that the group would pursue legal action if the directive is not withdrawn within 48 hours.

SERAP also asked the president to mandate a review of the relevant sections of the broadcasting code to ensure compliance with the 1999 Constitution and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.

The group maintained that freedom of expression includes the right to hold and share opinions, including commentary and analysis, which it described as central to journalism and democratic discourse. It noted that any restriction on these rights must meet legal standards of necessity, proportionality and legitimacy.

While acknowledging the need to prevent misuse of broadcast platforms, SERAP said regulatory measures must be precise and balanced, warning that sweeping restrictions could encourage self-censorship and weaken the media’s watchdog role.

The NBC had justified its directive by citing concerns over alleged breaches of the sixth edition of the broadcasting code in news and political programming, stating that it would enforce compliance and impose sanctions for violations.

However, SERAP insisted that the enforcement approach risks undermining constitutional guarantees and could erode editorial independence if not urgently reviewed.