#EndSARS: NBC gets 48-hour ultimatum to withdraw fines slammed on Arise, AIT, Channels
Thompson Nsisongabasi
Oct 26, 2020
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has condemned the fines imposed on Channels TV, AIT and Arise TV.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Monday said the stations broadcasted online photos and videos of the End SARS protests.
READ ALSO: Prof. Ibe Saddened Over Prof. Ikonne's Death, Suspends Campaign
The government suggested that their actions fuelled violence across Nigeria.
Acting NBC Director-General, Armstrong Idachaba, at a press conference in Abuja accused the outfits of "unprofessional coverageÔÇØ of the protests
READ ALSO: Sowore's Miscalculation and the Need to beat a Wise Retreat
SERAP in a statement by its Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare said the action is yet another example of Nigerian authorities' push to silence independent media and voices.
READ ALSO: How Buhari Won Despite PDP's Attempts To Rig 2015 Election - Garba Shehu
"NBC should drop the fines and uphold the Nigerian constitution and international obligations to respect and protect freedom of expression and media freedom. We will sue the NBC if the unconstitutional fines are not rescinded within 48 hours.
READ ALSO: Arewa Youths Call For Bishop Kukah's Arrest Over Coup Comment About Buhari
"This is a new low in Nigeria's protection of freedom of expression, and the ability of independent media to function in the country. The fines are detrimental to media freedom, and access to information and the NBC must immediately withdraw the decision.
READ ALSO: Why El-Rufai Was Returned To ICPC Custody?
"Media freedom and media plurality are a central part of the effective exercise of freedom of expression and access to information. The ability to practice journalism free from undue interference, to cover peaceful protests and critical views are crucial to the exercise of many other rights and freedoms.
READ ALSO: BREAKING (T0P STORY): Methodist Prelate Shares His Kidnapping Experience, Make Shocking Revelations
"The media has a vital role to play as 'public watchdog' in imparting information of serious public concern and should not be inhibited or intimidated from playing that role. The NBC should stop targeting and intimidating independent media and voices.ÔÇØ
READ ALSO: I Will Not Allow Criminality As President, Peter Obi Declares
SERAP asked President Muhammadu Buhari to caution the NBC to stop intimidating and harassing independent media houses.
READ ALSO: How Bandits Kidnapped Prospective Corps Member, Threatens To Marry Her Off
The body said authorities must respect the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country's international human rights obligations, including under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
Related Stories
REVEALED: How All Progressives Congress (APC) Played Into The Opposition Hands Ahead Of 2027 - Sumner Sambo Warns
I Will Not Allow Criminality As President, Peter Obi Declares
Why El-Rufai Was Returned To ICPC Custody?
Sowore's Miscalculation and the Need to beat a Wise Retreat
Tinubu Breaks Silence on Hardship, Inflation, Power Crisis - Vows Nigeria Will Overcome Economic Storm
"Terrorists Have Outgunned Our TroopsÔÇØ - Ndume Raises Alarm Over Boko Haram War, Sends Urgent Message To Tinubu
""
— Thompson Nsisongabasi