Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as an attempt to suppress free expression and silence dissent in the media.
The NBC had cautioned broadcasters against presenting opinions as facts or intimidating guests, while also warning that the airwaves should not be used to spread misinformation as Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle.
Reacting in a post on X, Atiku said the directive represents “yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria.”
He argued that Nigeria’s media industry has built a strong global reputation for resilience and professionalism, adding that it is concerning that the commission issues what he described as “heavy-handed directives” whenever elections draw near.
“I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he said. Atiku also maintained that ethical standards in journalism should not be used selectively during political campaigns, suggesting that the timing and tone of the advisory point to a broader agenda.
He accused the government of focusing on controlling narratives rather than ensuring a free, fair and transparent electoral process. The development comes amid rising political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the ruling All Progressives Congress expected to field President Bola Tinubu for re-election.
Opposition figures, including Atiku, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Nasir el-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, are aligning under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in a bid to strengthen opposition and challenge the dominance of the ruling party.