The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) yesterday criticised the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC)’s reported threat to sanction broadcast presenters for allegedly presenting personal opinions as facts or for bullying guests on air.

In a statement by President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the group considered the move “dangerous and injurious to journalism”.

The editors said: “It amounts to a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability “While we acknowledge that the NBC may be motivated by a desire to promote professionalism and uphold ethical standards in broadcasting, the Commission’s vague and broadly worded statement is open to multiple interpretations.

“Such ambiguity creates room for misuse, as it may be selectively applied or misinterpreted in ways that unfairly target journalists and media organisations carrying out their legitimate duties.

“The interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across News, Current Affairs, and Political Programmes is inherently subjective. “By positioning itself as the sole arbiter regarding rigorous questioning or appropriate scrutiny, the NBC opens the door to potential abuse.

“This approach risks weaponizing the broadcasting code to induce self-censorship among broadcasters, stifle legitimate journalistic inquiry, and silence critical voices.” The NGE insisted that the role of broadcast presenters and journalists, particularly during interviews, is to ask probing questions, challenge inconsistencies, and demand clarity in the public interest.

While the editors acknowledge the need for professionalism and civility in broadcasting, they said they “must not lose sight of a fundamental truth”. They added: “Democracy does not thrive on timid journalism, but on bold, responsible, and fact-driven interrogation of issues and personalities.”

They further said: “We therefore urge regulatory bodies to operate within clearly defined, transparent, and fair frameworks that do not undermine the independence of the media. “The NBC must demonstrate impartiality and restraint, carefully distinguishing between genuine misconduct and the rightful exercise of journalistic duty.”