Amnesty International condemns NBC directive as attack on press freedom

Amnesty International has condemned a directive issued by Nigeria's National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on April 17, 2026, titled 'formal notice to broadcasters.' According to the rights group, the notice targets political programming and anchors of current affairs shows, imposing what it calls 'unduly restrictive and invasive controls' aimed at pressuring journalists into self-censorship.

Amnesty says the NBC lacks authority to dictate how journalists do their jobs, warning the directive is an unlawful and repressive attempt to silence media and restrict freedom of expression. The group notes that such actions violate Nigeria's commitments under the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protect the right to seek, receive and impart information.

The NBC has not publicly responded to the criticism. Amnesty urged broadcasters nationwide to remain resolute and continue doing their jobs fiercely and independently without fear. For citizens, the directive signals a potential increase in media self-censorship that could limit access to diverse political viewpoints; staying informed through multiple sources and supporting press freedom initiatives may help counteract any chilling effect.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/19/allow-journalists-do-their-job-amnesty-international-tells-nbc/