The National Broadcasting Commission, (NBC), has cautioned stations against airing content materials inimical to national unity.
This was contained in an issued statement yesterday by the Commission’s Director-General, Balarabe Shehu Illelah.
The Commission also reminded broadcasters of the need to be guided by the code and ethics in the discharge of their responsibilities. Illelah warned that every station shall be held liable for any content in violation of the Nigeria Broadcast Code.
The statement read in part: “The National Broadcasting Commission has observed with concern the misuse of the airwaves to propagate incendiary materials by different groups in some broadcasting Stations in recent times.
“While appreciating the need of educating, informing, and enlightening the public on issues bordering on our National Development, the Commission wishes to seize this opportunity to advise broadcasters to be circumspect in the handling of News and Current Affairs programmes by exhibiting necessary professionalism.
“Consequently, the Commission implores broadcasters to: Advise guests and /or analysts on their platforms, not to polarise the citizenry with divisive rhetoric in driving home their points; Ensure that every news/current Affairs programme conforms to the provisions of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code; Take their social responsibility requirements seriously. Therefore, the Commission reminds broadcasters to be guided by the provision of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, especially sections 5.3.3(b); 5.4.(19f), and 5.5.6.
“Please note that every broadcast station is responsible for the content it transmits, and shall be held liable for any content in violation of the Nigeria Broadcast Code”.
