NBC Reacts To Closure Of Zamfara Broadcast Stations

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has expressed displeasure over the closure of some broadcast stations in Zamfara by the state government. 

The state government had ordered the closure of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gusau, and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)’s Pride FM amongst others.

Noting the reason for the closure, the state government in a statement on Saturday assigned by the state's commissioner for information, Alhaji Ibrahim Dosara alleged that the stations had violated its order and journalism practice.

Other stations affected by the closure include private owned Gamji TV, Gamji FM and Al umma TV. 

Meanwhile, reacting to the development, NBC in a statement today (Sunday) signed by the Director-General, Balarabe Shehu Ilelah described the closure as illegal. 

“The National Broadcasting Commission has noted with serious concern the illegal action of Zamfara State Government by directing the shutdown of operations of licensees of the Commission in the State, on Saturday, October 15, 2022.

“The NBC has clearly notified the State Government of the gravity of the illegality and requested it to expeditiously reverse the directive and apologize to the people of the State.

“We also urge the Security Agencies to ignore the call to restrict Staff of the affected Stations from conducting their legitimate duties.

“The Commission wishes to further emphasise that it will resist ANY attempt to cause a breach of law and order ANYWHERE through the misuse of the broadcast media in Nigeria, before, during and after the 2023 national elections.

“We call on ALL industry stakeholders to resist ANY attempt to truncate the hard-earned democratic gains in Nigeria.

“ANY aggrieved Person or Institution with genuine complaint(s) arising from unprofessional conduct or action by ANY licensed broadcaster in Nigeria is hereby requested to follow the laid down processes enshrined in the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

“The Commission will not relent to discharge its mandate according to the NBC Act, CAP. NII, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

"All broadcast license holders are urged to ensure strict compliance and avoid ANY action inimical to democratic governance and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

“Kindly extend the warmest high regards and assurances of the Director-General and the Board of management of the NBC, to ALL.”