NBC CAUTIONS TV, RADIO STATIONS ON BROADCASTING HERDSMEN QUIT NOTICE AND RELATED ISSUES
Amid crisis arising from eviction notices issued to Fulani herders in Ondo and Oyo States, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has cautioned television and radio stations against promoting divisive contents.
The warning was contained in a letter titled, ‘BROADCAST OF CRISIS INVOLVING HERDSMEN, CAUTION’, dated 26th January 2021, addressed to broadcasters nationwide by Dr. Chibuike Ogwumik, Zonal Director of NBC, Lagos State.
Recall that the eviction notice issued by Yoruba rights activist, Sunday Adeyemo popularly known as Sunday Igboho in Oyo State has led to unrest in the State as people lost their lives and properties were destroyed.
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Rotimi Akeredolu, Governor of Ondo State had also asked herdsmen in the state to leave the State forest reserves within a week.
The NBC, which is the regulator of the broadcast media, said there was a need for stations to exhibit professionalism and observe required caution in the coverage and presentation of the quit notice to herdsmen and related issues.
The letter read “The National Broadcasting Commission wishes to bring to your attention emerging trends of national concern like the herdsmen crisis in Ondo and Oyo states and related issues which could spiral out of proportion if not properly handled.
“The commission therefore seizes this opportunity to admonish broadcasters on the need to exhibit professionalism and observe required caution in the coverage and presentation of the quit notice to herdsmen and related issues.
“We wish to remind broadcasters of the rules governing the coverage of crisis as well as the constitutional need to not only promote and protect the corporate existence of Nigeria but also the socio- economic well being of the Nigerian State.
Read Also: SUNDAY IGBOHO'S SUPPORTERS CLASH WITH HERDSMEN IN IBARAPA, SERIKI FULANI OF OYO'S HOUSE RAZED
“Consequently, broadcasters are advised to be mindful of the following provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code: Sections 5.4.1 (a, baf) and 3.4.3
Section 5.4.1
a. present News and Commentary on a crisis, or emergency, in accordance with the professional standards
b. at all times, ensure that the coverage of a disaster or crisis is aimed at the overall public interest, guidance and safety not transmit divisive materials that may threaten or compromise the Indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a Sovereign State:
Section 5.4.3
In reporting conflict situations, the broadcaster shall perform the role of a peace agent by adhering to the principle of responsibility, accuracy and neutrality.”
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