By Aisha Mahmoud
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as an attempt to restrict press freedom and limit dissenting voices as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
The NBC had cautioned broadcast presenters against presenting opinions as facts or intimidating guests during programmes, while also warning against the spread of misinformation on the airwaves during a sensitive political period.
Reacting via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku said the directive reflects a pattern of “heavy-handed” interventions by the commission, particularly during election cycles. He argued that such actions risk undermining Nigeria’s democratic values and shrinking the space for free expression.
“I stand firmly with Nigeria’s broadcast industry and all media platforms resisting this creeping censorship,” he stated, adding that ethical journalism should not be selectively enforced as a political tool.
Atiku further suggested that the timing of the directive raises concerns about a broader attempt to control public discourse rather than ensure a transparent electoral process.
The development comes amid intensifying political activity ahead of the 2027 polls, where the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is widely expected to field incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election.
On the opposition front, key political figures are reportedly coalescing around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a potential coalition platform to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.
Prominent names linked to the emerging alliance include Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi.
Analysts say the dispute over media regulation highlights growing tensions between government institutions and opposition voices, as stakeholders position themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral contest.
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