Atiku Slams NBC’s Election Advisory as Attempt to Muzzle Media Ahead of 2027 Polls

 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as a troubling attempt to censor the Nigerian media and shrink the space for free expression as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

In a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, April 18, 2026, Atiku faulted the NBC’s “Code of Conduct advisory” to broadcasters, warning that it risks undermining press freedom and democratic accountability.

“The Code of Conduct advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission is yet another troubling attempt to muzzle the media and shrink the space for free expression in Nigeria,” Atiku said.

He added: “It is therefore alarming that, each time elections approach, the NBC resorts to heavy-handed directives that do more to silence dissent than to uphold ethical journalism. The timing and tone of these regulations expose a deeper agenda. It signals a government more interested in controlling narratives than permitting a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.

The NBC advisory, issued recently, cautioned broadcasters and presenters against unethical practices in news, current affairs, and political programmes. It specifically warned against bias, bullying of guests, presenting opinions as facts, and breaching provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, with threats of sanctions for violations. The commission cited a decline in professionalism and emphasised the need for fairness, balance, and neutrality, especially in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

Atiku argued that such directives, while ostensibly aimed at promoting ethical standards, appear designed to intimidate the media and restrict open discourse during politically sensitive periods.

He urged stakeholders to resist what he called “creeping censorship,” stressing that a vibrant and independent media is essential for holding power accountable and ensuring credible elections.

The criticism has drawn support from some civil society groups. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the reversal of the NBC notice, describing it as a dangerous move towards prior censorship.

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 polls, concerns over media freedom and regulatory overreach have intensified. Analysts note that similar advisories in past election cycles have often sparked debates about the balance between broadcast regulation and constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Atiku, a prominent opposition figure and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has positioned himself as a defender of democratic values. He has repeatedly warned against actions that could tilt the electoral playing field in favour of the ruling party.

The NBC is yet to issue an official response to Atiku’s statement as of the time of filing this report. The commission maintains that its role is to ensure professionalism and protect the public from misinformation and hate speech in the broadcast space.

This development comes amid broader conversations about media independence, digital rights, and the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

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.