#EndSARS: SERAP Threatens to Sue NBC Within 48hrs Over Fines
The Socio-economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to stop restricting media freedom in the country with fines.
The NGO’s call on Monday came as a reaction to the recent fines imposed by the commission on some broadcast stations.
Earlier, NBC had stressed that the affected stations violated certain codes with regard to the coverage of incidents associated with the EndSARS protests.
But SERAP objected and threatened to drag the NBC to court over the matter.
We condemn the illegal fines of N9m reportedly imposed by the National Broadcasting Commission on Channels TV, AIT and Arise TV [N3m each] over their coverage of the #EndSARS protests.
“We’ll sue the NBC if the unconstitutional fines are not rescinded within 48 hours.
“This action by the NBC is yet another example of Nigerian authorities’ push to silence independent media and voices. The NBC should drop the fines and uphold Nigerian constitution and international obligations to respect and protect freedom of expression and media freedom,” it tweeted on Monday.
It also maintained that the media should continue to perform their constitutional duties for the betterment of the country.
“The fines are detrimental to freedom of expression and the media, and access to information in Nigeria, and the NBC must 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,” it stated.
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