Just In… NBC threatens to sanction TV, radio stations still using Twitter

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has directed all broadcast stations in the country still using the Twitter platform after its ban by the Federal Government to suspend the use of the platform with immediate effect.

The Commission maintained that its decision followed the suspension of Twitter operations in the country over the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.

In a statement issued by the acting Director-General, NBC, Prof. Armstrong Idachaba, on Monday titled: “Suspend Twitter handles”, NBC directed the broadcast stations to un-install their Twitter handles and desist from using the platform as a source of information gathering for news, and programmes presentation especially the phone-in programmes.

The statement reads, “Consequent on the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria by the Federal Government over the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining the corporate existence of Nigeria, the National Broadcasting Commission directs all Broadcasting Stations in Nigeria to suspend the patronage of Twitter immediately.

“In Compliance to the above directive, Broadcasting Stations are hereby advised to de-install Twitter handles and desist from using Twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for News and programmes Presentation especially phone-in.

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“Section 2(1) r of the NBC Act entrusts the Commission with responsibility to ensure strict adherence to the national laws, rules, and regulations. Also, Section 3.11.2 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code provides that “the broadcaster shall ensure that law enforcement is upheld at all times in a matter depicting that law and order are socially superior to or more desirable than crime and anarchy.

“Attention is also drawn to section 5.6.3 of The Code which requires Broadcasters to be mindful of materials that may cause disaffection, incite to panic or rift in the society in the use of a user-generated content (UGC).

“Note that it will be unpatriotic for any broadcaster in Nigeria to continue to patronise the suspended Twitter as a source of its information therefore strict compliance is enjoined.”

By Victor Uzoho

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