The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from enforcing sanctions against broadcasters over the expression of personal opinions, in a ruling widely seen as a boost for media freedom in Nigeria.
Justice Daniel Osiagor granted an interim injunction on May 4, 2026, preventing the NBC from acting on its controversial “Formal Notice,” which had warned broadcast stations and presenters against expressing opinions as facts, intimidating guests, or failing to maintain neutrality.
The order followed an ex parte application filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), who challenged the legality of the NBC’s directive.
In his ruling, Justice Osiagor directed that the NBC, its agents, and associates must refrain from enforcing or imposing sanctions under several provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code pending the determination of a substantive motion before the court.
SERAP and NGE had argued that the provisions relied upon by the NBC were vague, overly broad, and inconsistent with the 1999 Constitution, as well as Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. They contended that such regulations could be used to suppress legitimate journalistic expression and undermine democratic discourse.
Reacting to the decision, the organisations described it as a “significant victory for freedom of expression, media freedom, and the rule of law.” They said the ruling reaffirmed the principle that regulatory authorities must operate within constitutional limits.
The groups also urged the NBC to comply fully with the court order, warning against any attempt to enforce the suspended provisions.
The case has been adjourned to June 1, 2026, for the hearing of the motion on notice.
The lawsuit raises broader concerns about press freedom ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the plaintiffs warning that restrictive regulations could stifle public debate, encourage self-censorship, and weaken the media’s role in holding public officials accountable.
