NBC bans broadcast stations from use of Twitter

The National Broadcasting Commission, NBC, has directed broadcast stations to de-install Twitter handles and refrain from using the platform as a source of information gathering for news and programmes.

The Commission in a statement on Monday said that in line with the provisions of the NBC Act, it must adhere to National Laws, rules, and regulations and it will amount to an act of unpatriotism for any broadcaster in Nigeria to continue to patronise the suspended twitter for information purpose.

The Federal Government last week suspended Twitter in Nigeria after the platform deleted what it considers inciting statement from President Muhammed Buhari a situation that has continued to generate widespread condemnation from Nigerians, groups, and the international community.

Below is the text of the letter addressed to the radio and television stations.

June 6, 2021
 
SUSPEND TWITTER HANDLES

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.

Section 2(1) r of the NBC Act entrusts the Commission with the 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 panic, or rift in the society in the use of 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.
 
Prof Armstrong Idachaba