Amanze Chinonye
The Federal High Court of Nigeria sitting in Lagos has restrained the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from enforcing parts of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code used to sanction broadcast stations and presenters.
The order, contained in a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling delivered on May 4, 2026, followed an ex parte application filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE).
In the suit marked FHC/L/CS/854/26, the applicants challenged the NBC’s use of a recent “Formal Notice” to threaten sanctions against broadcasters over issues including the expression of personal opinions as facts, alleged intimidation of guests, and failure to maintain neutrality.
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Granting the application, Justice D.E. Osiagor issued an interim injunction restraining the NBC, its officers and agents from “enforcing, imposing sanctions, or levying fines on any broadcasting station” based on specific provisions of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, pending the determination of the substantive motion.
The affected sections include provisions cited by the regulator in its directive to broadcasters, which had raised concerns among media stakeholders over potential restrictions on press freedom and editorial independence.
The court ruled after hearing submissions from counsel to the applicants, led by A. Olumide Fusika (SAN), alongside other legal representatives, while counsel also appeared for the NBC.
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The matter has been adjourned to June 1, 2026, for hearing of the motion on notice for an interlocutory injunction.
The ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing legal challenge between media advocacy groups and the broadcast regulator over the scope of regulatory powers and the protection of freedom of expression in Nigeria’s media space.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
