2023 Political Campaigns: Uphold Ethics, Be Neutral — NBC To Broadcasters

Broadcasters in the country have been advised to remain neutral and uphold the ethics of the profession ahead of the political campaigns set to begin on September 28, 2022.

The advice was given by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Monday by its Chairman Malam Balarabe Ilelah.

Ilelah was speaking at a forum on political broadcasting with the theme, 'Towards a Fair and Responsible Broadcast Coverage of the 2023 General Elections: A Multi Stakeholders Dialogue', held in Abuja.

He called on broadcasters and anchors of political programmes to ensure that their platforms are well guided in making sure guests abide by the broadcasting code.

The NBC boss also enjoined broadcasters to give equal access and opportunities to all political players, registered political parties and candidates.

”This is in addition to ensuring equity in airtime allocation and coverage of political parties’ activities, particularly during prime times.

"It is also the time for you to make money from Political Adverts and Campaigns but ensure that this is done within the ambit of Law.

"Broadcasters are also required to handle live political rallies with care and due professionalism.

"This is in addition to studio-based live political interviews/broadcasts. Because of the sensitivities of such programs, broadcasters are advised to install a delay mechanism.

”Remember that broadcast stations are held responsible for any breach.

"The stations shall, therefore, assume and accept editorial responsibility. I also use this opportunity to remind broadcasters not to allow any form of hate speech, fake news, derogatory or divisive remarks and any incendiary broadcast on their platforms.

"However, if your political content is indecent and hateful, then a station is allowed to turn it down and give reasons why it cannot be taken.

”The Commission also uses this opportunity to tell Nigerians that they can complain to the NBC if the content on any station annoys their sensibilities or sensitivity", he stated.