BREAKING: NBA Criticises Kano’s Media Regulations, Says Only NBC Has Authority To Censor Broadcast Content

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticised the Kano State Government’s newly introduced media regulations, declaring them unconstitutional and beyond the legal powers of any state government.

The state recently announced a set of broadcast guidelines aimed at “safeguarding cultural and religious values,” which include a complete ban on live political programmes and a requirement for media guests to sign undertakings not to make abusive or defamatory remarks. Presenters are also barred from asking provocative questions or making gestures that could damage the state’s image.

The state government said the regulations followed a consultative meeting with media executives in Kano.

In response, NBA President Afam Osigwe, in a statement issued on Thursday, described the move as “ill-advised” and a “gross violation” of the 1999 Constitution. He stated that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal mandate to regulate broadcast content across Nigeria.

“The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) unequivocally states that no state government has the legal competence to regulate or censor broadcast content in Nigeria,” Osigwe said.

“That responsibility lies squarely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), established by the NBC Act, to ensure that broadcast content aligns with national standards and constitutional provisions.”

He stressed that the NBC Code already provides a clear framework for handling inappropriate or harmful broadcast content and empowers the commission to take corrective action against any station in breach of the code — not the state governments.

Osigwe warned that the Kano government’s “unilateral action” violates Section 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to receive and impart information and ideas without interference.

“Attempting to suppress live political programming under the guise of maintaining public order sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the vibrancy of political discourse, transparency, and accountability,” he said.

He further noted that such directives undermine media independence and the public’s access to information, which are essential pillars of democracy.

The NBA called for the immediate reversal of the directive and urged the NBC to assert its regulatory authority to prevent further encroachments by state governments.