The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to press freedom and democratic governance in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 21, Obi said Nigeria is “Drifting dangerously,” warning that the country appears to be moving away from strengthening its democratic institutions at a critical time.
The former Anambra State governor specifically referenced a recent directive by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), describing it as troubling given the current political climate.
Obi cautioned that attempts to regulate, suppress, or intimidate journalists could weaken governance rather than strengthen it.
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“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy,” he said. “The media is the conscience of the nation.”
“Attempting to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weakens our already fragile democracy,” he stated.
He stressed that public institutions are meant to serve citizens, not those in power. “Institutions are not built to serve governments; they are built to serve the people,” he added.
The former governor also pointed to wider national challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and growing public disillusionment, arguing that government attention should be focused on delivery rather than media control.
“At a time when insecurity is on the rise, young Nigerians are losing faith in the country, and the economy continues to fail the average citizen, our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results,” he said.
Obi called for stronger democratic institutions rather than tighter control mechanisms. “Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions,” he stated.
He expressed solidarity with media organisations and broadcasters, praising their resistance to attempts to limit independent reporting.
“We must return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms and agencies of government,” he said. “We cannot continue to endanger our democracy.”
He concluded by reaffirming his belief in national renewal, saying, “A new Nigeria is possible.”
