Amnesty International Hails Court Order Blocking NBC Sanctions on Broadcasters

Amnesty International Nigeria has welcomed a Federal High Court ruling that restrains the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from enforcing its proposed sanctions against broadcasters, describing the decision as a victory for free expression and media independence.

The interim injunction, granted by Justice Daniel Osiagor in Lagos on Monday, ordered the NBC to suspend implementation of its “Formal Notice” issued on May 2, pending the determination of a substantive suit. The notice had threatened sanctions against broadcasters accused of presenting opinions as facts, intimidating guests, or failing to maintain neutrality in their programmes.

In a statement on Wednesday, Amnesty criticised the NBC directive as vague and prone to abuse, warning that its enforcement could have a chilling effect on Nigeria’s media landscape. The organisation argued that such regulatory measures risk silencing critical voices and undermining constitutional guarantees as well as international standards on freedom of expression.

Amnesty described the court’s ruling as an important step toward protecting journalists and media houses from regulatory overreach. However, it noted that the order is only interim and does not finally resolve the legal dispute over the NBC’s action.

The organisation called on the NBC to withdraw the directive entirely and refrain from introducing similar measures that could restrict press freedom. It further urged authorities to ensure that journalists and broadcasters can perform their duties without intimidation or undue interference.

The case has been adjourned to June 1, 2026, for the hearing of the motion on notice.