Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised alarm over what he described as increasing threats to press freedom in Nigeria, warning that the country is “drifting dangerously” following recent regulatory actions affecting broadcast media.
In a statement shared on his X account on Tuesday, Obi said recent developments involving broadcast regulation were “very troubling,” referencing a recent notice issued by the National Broadcasting Commission ahead of the general elections.
“Yesterday’s advocates of democracy, today’s oppressor of the press… Nigeria is drifting dangerously,” he wrote, insisting that “a free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy.”
Obi emphasised the importance of the media in sustaining accountability, describing it as the conscience of the nation.
He cautioned that any attempt to regulate or intimidate journalists, under any justification, would further weaken Nigeria’s democratic system.
“Attempting to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weakens our already fragile democracy.
Institutions are not built to serve governments; they are built to serve the people,” he said.
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His remarks followed a recent advisory from the National Broadcasting Commission cautioning broadcast stations over rising ethical and professional breaches among presenters, including presenting personal views as facts and failing to maintain balanced reporting.
The commission also warned that any violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code would attract sanctions as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, stressing the need for neutrality, fairness and professionalism in broadcast content.
Reacting to broader national concerns, Obi urged a shift in focus toward governance challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship and declining public trust, rather than tightening control over the media.
“At a time when insecurity is on the rise, young Nigerians are losing faith in the country, and the economy continues to fail the average citizen, our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results,” he said.
He further expressed support for media organisations, stating, “I stand in solidarity with Nigeria’s media houses and broadcasters who are standing against this attempt to silence independent voices and restrict free expression.”
Obi also called for renewed commitment to transparency, accountability and institutional independence, adding, “We must return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms and agencies of government. We cannot continue to endanger our democracy.”
He concluded that strengthening democratic structures, rather than tightening control, was the way forward, insisting that “Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions.”