The licence of Human Rights Radio station, owned by Ahmad Isah, popularly known as ‘ordinary president’, has been suspended by the National Broadcasting Commission, (NBC), for “recurring unprofessional conduct”.
Recall that the activist, in a British Broadcasting Corporation, (BBC) documentary programme “Africa Eye”, was seen slapping a lady who was accused of setting her brother’s daughter on fire, sparking mixed reactions on and off social media.
However, Isah apologised for his action but he was summoned by NBC to explain the circumstances behind the incident.
In a statement issued yesterday, the NBC said it met with the Brekete Family show host on May 26, and “has reviewed the events and notes unreserved apologies and regrets expressed by the broadcaster”.
The Commission said the action was in clear violation of the broadcasting code and a betrayal of confidence placed on him by the people and the Federal Government.
While recognising that the radio station has tuned its programming to the yearnings of the people, it noted that the station has been repeatedly warned and fined over abuse of ethics over the years.
It, therefore, ordered the suspension of the station’s licence for 30 days, effective from May 31st, during which it said, “it is expected that the broadcaster will put its house in order and attune itself to responsive, professional, and responsible broadcasting”.
“It shall also pay a recommencement fee of as provided for in section 15.5.1 of the broadcasting code at the end of the suspension period”, the NBC stated.
