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.
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 coverage” of the
protests
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.
“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are not rescinded within 48 hours.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
SERAP asked President Muhammadu Buhari to caution the NBC to
stop intimidating and harassing independent media houses.
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.
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