The National Broadcasting Commission has raised concerns over what it described as declining professionalism among broadcast presenters, warning that violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code will attract sanctions as the 2027 general elections approach.

In a statement issued on Friday by its management, the commission said it had observed a troubling shift away from the core principles of broadcast journalism, particularly in areas of fairness, balance and neutrality.

According to the commission, some anchors and presenters now present personal opinions as facts, fail to provide balanced representation of opposing views, and permit inflammatory or divisive content on their programmes.

It stressed that such actions contravene provisions of the broadcasting code, which mandate accuracy, professionalism and responsible conduct.

The NBC warned that any presenter who expresses personal opinions as facts, intimidates guests, or denies fair hearing to alternative viewpoints would be classified as committing a Class B breach.

It added that broadcasters retain full editorial responsibility for content aired on their platforms, even during live programmes, and cannot shift accountability to guests.

The commission noted that the development reflects a broader pattern of increasing violations across news, current affairs and political programming.

It also raised concerns over the use of broadcast platforms by political actors to disseminate content capable of inciting unrest, spreading hate speech, and undermining national unity.

The NBC emphasised that it would enforce strict compliance with the broadcasting code, warning that inflammatory or unverified content would attract regulatory penalties.

As Nigeria approaches a key electoral period, the commission urged media organisations to promote responsible discourse and ensure that broadcast platforms remain channels for accurate information and national cohesion.