The concern of the guild was expressed on Tuesday in a statement by its president, Mr. Eze Anaba, and the general secretary, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh.

“We consider such a move dangerous and injurious to journalism. It amounts to a direct assault on the principles of press freedom, editorial independence and democratic accountability,” the NGE stated.

It warned that the Nigerian press would not be intimidated in the face of any threat as it would carry out its duties diligently.

It argued that while it acknowledged that the NBC might be motivated by a desire to promote professionalism and uphold ethical standards in broadcasting, the commission’s vague and broadly worded statement was open to multiple interpretations.

Such ambiguity, it stated, created room for misuse, as it might be selectively applied or misinterpreted in ways that unfairly targetted journalists and media organisations carrying out their legitimate duties.

It said the interpretation of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across News, Current Affairs, and Political Programmes was inherently subjective.

The guild said by positioning itself as the sole arbiter regarding rigorous questioning or appropriate scrutiny, the NBC opened 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.

“We reiterate 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. Journalism is not designed to place public officials or interviewees in a comfort zone, but to hold power accountable,” the NGE said.

It posited that as the country moved closer to another election cycle, there was no better time for the media to intensify its watchdog role than now.

The scrutiny of political actors, it reasoned, was essential as “citizens rely on the media for accurate and comprehensive information to make informed decisions and carry out their civic responsibilities.”

That responsibility, it said, demanded that journalists asked tough, even uncomfortable, questions in the public interest.

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

“Journalists are not lawbreakers. They are trained professionals guided by enduring ethical standards, including the principle that ‘comment is free, but facts are sacred.’

“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.”

The NGE said the Nigerian press would not be intimidated in the face of any threat as it would rmain committed to discharging its duties.

“In the face of such threats, the Nigerian press will not be intimidated. We remain resolute in our commitment to ask tough questions, report facts, and provide analysis without fear or favour,” the NGE declared.

READ ALSO: 

Stock market records N88bn gain

FIBA World Cup: D’Tigress draw tough group with France, S’Korea

UTME: Why some candidates’ results not yet released –JAMB

BREAKING: Tinubu reshuffles cabinet as Edun, Dangiwa leave

Celebrating our military’s heroic actions across multiple theatres

NDLEA secures forfeiture of N33.6bn worth of opioids intercepted

Labour Party fixes national convention for April 28

COVID-19: Govt confirms case in Cross River

US positive on Iran deal but talks still uncertain

Bad habits that don’t change as you age

Poetry: NLNG prize for literature draws 223 entries

I-G restructures Police Monitoring Unit, gives reason

Troops destroy bandits’ enclaves in Bauchi

UTME: How woman died after taking child to exam centre -Police

NCC, CBN sign MoU for consumer safety, inaugurate committees against fraud

The post NGE warns NBC: Nigerian press will not be intimidated by threats appeared first on Frontpageng.

This was made known on Sunday in a press statement signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Lagos, Nigeria, Mr. Kolawole Oluwadare, and NGE’s General Secretary, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh.

Governor Bago recently directed security operatives to seal Badeggi FM, with threat to revoke its licence, demolish the station’s premises, and profile the station’s owner, Shuiabu Badeggi.

In the suit filed on Friday, with number FHC/L/CS/1587/2025, at the Federal High Court, Lagos, SERAP and NGE are asking the court to determine whether, by section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) and section 2(1) (t) of the NBC Act, the NBC has the duty to protect Badeggi FM from the ongoing intimidation from the governor.

SERAP and NGE are asking the court for “a declaration that by the combined provisions of section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution and section 2(1)(t) of the NBC Act, the NBC has the legal duty to protect Badeggi FM and other broadcasting outlets in Nigeria from any intimidation and undue interference.”

SERAP and NGE are seeking “an order of perpetual injunction restraining Niger State governor and NBC from harassing, intimidating and/or threatening to shutdown Badeggi FM and revoke the licence of station.”

In the suit, SERAP and NGE are arguing that: “the failure and or neglect of the NBC to protect and defend the independence of Badeggi FM radio against arbitrary executive interference constitutes a breach of its statutory duty to ensure fair, independent, and lawful broadcasting practices in Nigeria.”

SERAP and NGE are also arguing that, “the ongoing intimidation, and threat by Governor Bago to strip Badeggi FM station of its operational licence, further threat to demolish the station’s premises and to profile the station’s owner is unlawful and a violation of the rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and media freedom.”

READ ALSO: Oba Adetona and the hypocrisy of religionists, By Bolanle Bolawole

According to SERAP and NGE, “the allegations of inciting violence against Badeggi FM and its owner are vague, unfounded and unsubstantiated.”

The suit filed on behalf of SERAP and NGE by their lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare, Oluwakemi Agunbiade, and Andrew Nwankwo, reads in part: “The media plays an essential role as a vehicle or instrument for the exercise of freedom of expression and information – in its individual and collective aspects – in a democratic society.

“Intimidating, harassing and silencing critical or dissenting voices under the guise of vague and unsubstantiated national security concerns is a fundamental breach of your constitutional oath of office and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.

“Intimidating, harassing and silencing Badeggi FM and its owner would have a chilling effect on the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom across several states.

“The ongoing intimidation and threat to arbitrarily revoke the station’s licence, unlawfully demolish its premises and profile its owner are all clearly antithetical to the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international human rights obligations.

“The ongoing intimidation and harassment of Badeggi FM and its owner is capable of discouraging participation of the press in debates over matters of legitimate public concern ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The ongoing intimidation and harassment of Badeggi FM, its owner and other staff members of the station constitute a serious restriction on the development of democracy in the country, since it impedes free debate over ideas and opinions.

“Media outlets in Niger State should be free to enable debate on issues of public interest without fear of reprisals.

“Both Governor Bago and the NBC have the duty to respect and uphold the constitutional and statutory obligations to ensure that journalists and media houses that regularly impart information on matters of public interest including Badeggi FM enjoy an environment to perform that function.

“There is significant public interest in the capacity of the press, including Badeggi FM to obtain and impart the information that it needs to function properly and perform its vital public watchdog role.

“Any restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom must be provided by law, imposed to protect legitimate aims, and necessary to protect those aims.

“While the Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties recognise national security and public order as legitimate aims for restricting freedom of expression, the UN Human Rights Council has stressed ‘the need to ensure that the invocation of national security is not used arbitrarily to restrict freedom of expression.’

“Governor Bago reportedly ordered the immediate shutdown of Badeggi, a privately owned radio station in Minna, ordered the station’s premises to be marked for demolition and requested the Commissioner for Homeland Security to profile the station’s owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, on unfounded allegations that the station promotes violence.

“Governor Bago also reportedly stated that the ‘daily activities of the radio station have been unethical’, and accused the owner of the station of incitement of the people against the government.

“A journalist’s or a radio station’s right to freedom of expression is protected even if the opinion advanced is not positively received.

“The Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties protect the press not merely so that specific journalists may conduct their work; they protect the press in order to guarantee the public’s right of access to information in the public interest.

“The free communication of information and ideas about public and political issues between citizens, candidates and elected representatives is essential. This implies a free press and other media to be able to comment on public issues without censorship or restraint and to inform public opinion.”

SERAP and NGE are therefore asking the court for the following reliefs:

1. A DECLARATION that by the combined provisions of section 22 Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) section 2(1)(t) of the National Broadcasting Act, the NBC is obligated by law to protect Badeggi FM station and other broadcasting outlets in Nigeria from undue interference from unauthorized persons or entity.
2. A DECLARATION that the failure and or neglect of the NBC to protect and defend the independence of the radio station against arbitrary executive interference constitutes a breach of its statutory duty to ensure fair, independent, and lawful broadcasting practices in Nigeria.
3. A DECLARATION that the ongoing intimidation and threat issued by Governor Bago to strip Badeggi FM station of its operational licence and further threat to demolish the station’s premises is unlawful and a violation of the rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and media freedom.
4. A DECLARATION that the threat issued by Governor Bago to strip Badeggi FM radio station of its operational licence encroaches upon the statutory powers of the NBC provided for under section 2 of the National Broadcasting Commission Act, thereby rendering the decision of the NBC ultra vires its constitutional duties and unlawful.
5. AN ORDER of perpetual injunction restraining the NBC, its agents and privies from harassing, intimidating and/or threatening to revoke the operating licence of Badeggi FM station or any other broadcasting outlet in Niger State.

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

The post SERAP, NGE sue Governor Bago, NBC over Badeggi FM appeared first on Frontpageng.

The recent closure of Badeggi Radio in Niger State by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has reignited a fundamental national conversation around press freedom and the limits of executive power in a democratic state. The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the governor’s action in unequivocal terms, describing it as “a blatant attack on press freedom and democracy.” Beyond the headlines, however, the incident reveals a more profound unease with how public office holders relate to independent media, and it raises urgent questions about the protection of constitutional rights under Nigeria’s democratic dispensation.

At the heart of the controversy is Governor Bago’s decision to unilaterally shut down Badeggi Radio over allegations of incitement. According to the NGE, the governor bypassed the legally established regulatory framework governing broadcast media. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC)—a federal agency—is empowered to investigate and sanction broadcast stations following due process. The governor’s directive, which led to physically sealing the station’s premises, therefore represents a legal overreach and an affront to institutional integrity.

The 1999 Constitution (as amended), particularly Section 39, guarantees freedom of expression, including the freedom to own, operate, and access the press. Similarly, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ratified by Nigeria, provides for freedom of expression without interference. Governor Bago’s action, lacking the imprimatur of a competent regulatory or judicial body, is inconsistent with these provisions.

What makes the situation even more troubling is the resort to executive fiat—a standard tool in authoritarian regimes—rather than lawful recourse to regulatory mechanisms. The NGE has rightly pointed out that allegations such as incitement to violence are serious and must be thoroughly investigated. But investigations should precede sanctions, not the other way around.

The closure of Badeggi Radio fits a pattern of growing intolerance among political elites to criticism, dissent, or alternative narratives, especially from local and community-focused media. These outlets, often the only source of localised information for rural and peri-urban populations, serve a critical function in democracies by enabling citizen participation, amplifying marginalised voices, and holding local leaders accountable.

READ ALSO: EXTRA: Guilty! I judged this book by its Cover

The NGE’s allusion to the “dark days of military rule” is more than a rhetorical flourish. Nigeria’s history is replete with examples of media suppression under military regimes. The notorious Decree 4 of 1984, under which journalists could be jailed for publishing “false statements,” whether factual or not, remains a chilling reminder. Sealing a media house without due process evokes this authoritarian legacy—something Nigeria’s 26-year-old democracy has striven to transcend.

The Guild’s statement serves as both a rebuke and a caution: Democracy is not just about elections and officeholders but also institutions, civil liberties, and respect for the rule of law. The arbitrary shutdown of media outlets undermines all three.

To his credit, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mallam Mohammed Idris publicly acknowledged the governor’s illegal action. However, as the NGE notes, mere acknowledgement is insufficient. Executive intervention is required: immediately unsealing Badeggi Radio and reaffirming NBC’s regulatory primacy. Anything less could set a dangerous precedent where state governors assume powers they do not constitutionally possess, emboldening others to silence dissent with impunity.

While defending the radio station’s right to exist and operate freely, the NGE reminded journalists of their professional obligations. The call for ethical and responsible journalism is timely. Incitement to violence is a serious charge, and media platforms must be cautious not to become tools for stoking communal tensions or spreading misinformation. That said, ethical lapses should be addressed through due regulatory and judicial processes—not executive high-handedness.

This incident calls for greater vigilance by media stakeholders, civil society, and citizens. The creeping normalisation of state-sponsored media clampdowns, often justified by vague accusations of “threats to public order,” should not be allowed to take root. If allowed to stand, the closure of Badeggi Radio could become a template for future abuses.

Equally, institutions like the NBC must assert their independence and prevent politicians from using them as instruments of vendetta or silencing dissent. And professional bodies like the NGE must go beyond statements to coordinate legal challenges and galvanise public awareness around such infractions.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors has raised an alarm that should not be ignored. Badeggi Radio’s closure is not an isolated event but a symptom of a deeper democratic malaise. Whether driven by hubris, ignorance of the law, or an emerging culture of intolerance, Governor Bago’s action represents a backwards slide in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Reopening Badeggi Radio pending the conclusion of any investigation is not just the right thing to do—it is the only legal and democratic option. For democracy to thrive, freedom of the press must be sacred. It is not merely a right for journalists or media houses—it is the oxygen of the public sphere. Smothering it, even temporarily, endangers us all.

Dr. Onyima, a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors is a former Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, and lectures at Paul University, Awka.

The post Badeggi Radio closure: A dangerous echo from Nigeria’s authoritarian past appeared first on Frontpageng.

The second edition of this partnership between Naija Brand Chick and Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture is focused on leveraging entertainment to further drive trade.

The fair will take place from Friday, April 11, to Sunday, April 13, at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, on Tuesday, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs in the state with different initiatives.

He said, “The essence of tourism lies in buying, selling, and landscape development while boosting the local economy and fostering cultural exchange. Our administration is particular about job creation, poverty reduction, SMEs growth, and bridging inequality, and we aim to further achieve with initiatives like this.

“This edition is set to be bigger and better, as we have worked tirelessly to refine the experience and maximise impact. Beyond the physical marketplace, we are also introducing an Online Deals Spot to expand accessibility.”

Aregbe stated that the government was actively involved in ensuring that the trade fair arena would be a place where people from different parts of the world could shop right, shop smart, and save costs.

He also hinted that potential buyers should expect discounted shopping opportunities.

The CEO of Naija Brand Chick, Nelly Agbogu, also shared her excitement for this year’s edition, highlighting Lagos’ commerce prowess and its role in the success of her trade exhibitions, making strategic marketing solutions easy.

READ ALSO: Police rescue two abducted varsity students in Nasarawa

“Lagos provides the perfect landscape for business growth, and this fair is proof that dreams can be actualised with the right support. We are excited to create another groundbreaking event that empowers SMEs and transforms lives. Thanks to the Lagos State Government for its intentional commitment to the growth and development of small businesses.”

The Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair is raising the bar even higher, with a strong focus on increasing sales, fostering deeper connections between vendors and customers, and solidifying its reputation as a must-attend business event in Nigeria.

New activities will be integrated into the programme, including business masterclasses, interactive workshops, and financial inclusion initiatives, providing vendors with access to grants and support.

Beyond business, there will be guest appearances by influencers and celebrities, cultural and band performances, dance showcases, exciting giveaways, and raffle draws.

These are designed to drive sales and boost visibility for participating brands.

The 2024 edition recorded immense success and countless testimonies from vendors who shared their experiences online and through correspondence.

The innovation of the Sanwo-Naira was the major means of exchange, and the addition of Lagos Corner, which provided small businesses with limited resources the opportunity to participate for free, was a key highlight of the event.

The post Lagos to host Nigeria’s biggest SMEs trade fair, targets N5bn appeared first on Frontpageng.

This approval is contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Mrs. Francisca Aiyetan, dated February 3, 2025 and addressed to the Rector, Arc. Dr. ‘Koye Jolaoso as a result of his efforts to resuscitate the MAPOLY Campus Radio Station.

The letter reads in part: “I am directed to convey the approval of the National Broadcasting Commission to your request to commence full transmission on your Campus FM Radio Station, MAPOLY 99.7MHz, Abeokuta, Ogun State.”

READ ALSO: Nigeria secures hosting rights for World Public Relations Forum

It reads further that, “This is based on the report of successful completion of Test Transmission by the Station in compliance with the provisions of the National Broadcasting Commission Act, Cap. N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and the Nigeria Broadcasting Code”.

In a statement issued to announce the approval, the Head, Public Relations and Protocol of the institution, Mr. ‘Yemi Ajibola said by the development, the agenda for a new MAPoly is boosted as it will enhance Mass Communication training in the 46-year-old institution thus helping students acquire necessary practical skills to make them not only functional, but competitive in the industry upon graduation.

The post MAPOLY Radio: NBC issues full operational licence appeared first on Frontpageng.

Speaking at the final day of the Lagos Tourism and Naija Brand Chick Trade Fair in Ikeja, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Arts, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, said the trade fair has changed the lives of the vendors and impacted their businesses positively.

The sixth edition of the trade fair, which began on Friday and ended on Sunday at White Stone, Oregun, Ikeja, was organised in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

Some of the thousands of vendors and participants who took part in the sixth edition of the fair, tagged “Buy, Sell, Network,” described it as a success and remarkable.

They also commended the Lagos State government, particularly Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for providing opportunities for vendors to transact business successfully during the trade fair.

Speaking to journalists on the last day of the trade fair, Aregbe said Lagos would continue to lead when it comes to art, entertainment, commerce and industry.

READ ALSO: WEATHER FORECAST: NiMet predicts thunderstorms, cloudiness

He said, “It has been a great journey. It is indeed a fantastic project and initiative because people are happy. We have been able to create a partnership between Lagos Tourism and the trade fair. We have been able to use entertainment to push our brand. We have been able to use the event to educate the people on the streets of Lagos, and we have seen that Lagos will continue to lead when it comes to commerce and industry.

“I am happy that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu supported this initiative. The trade fair has changed many of the vendors’ directions for business, sales, and passion. I am happy, and the partnership between Lagos State and Naija Brand Chick is a fantastic one. We have vendors from the UK and different parts of Nigeria. And they all appreciated the Lagos State Governor for giving them the opportunity.”

Aregbe, while stressing the Lagos State government’s commitment to growing SMEs, said: “The government is not in competition with anybody. We are only complementing and supporting businesses, especially SMEs.

“Lagos is committed to the trade fair because we need to grow our naira. We need to support SMEs. Lagos is huge when it comes to economic and entertainment values in terms of numbers, and we need to convert the numbers and values into something meaningful, and that is what we have done in the last three days to support SMEs.

“Any government or brand that is not supporting SMEs is not ready for business. Lagos State Government has demonstrated and shown other states that SMEs are something that we must show support for, and we must always find a way to support them and give them the nod that they need. And that is what we have done.”

Also speaking, the founder of Naija Brand Chick Trade Fair, Mrs. Nelly Agboju, said the 2024 edition was impactful, especially on vendors.

She commended Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for the success of the Lagos Tourism and Naija Brand Chick trade fair.

She said: “The whole aim of this fair is to help business owners do better in their businesses, grow and meet their customers, get more visible and increase the capacity of their brands, and also help Nigerians in general.

“On the first day alone, over N300 million was realised. We are excited that the fair was a phenomenon, and we know this has been one of the best fairs ever.

“It couldn’t have been possible without the partnership of the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Arts, Tourism and Culture. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Arts, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, has been so amazing to us. He has supported us. He came around to see the vendors. He made sure everybody was happy. People came out after Ileya and Father’s Day. We are excited to see the results that have come out.

“This has been one of the most wonderful partnerships I have had in a very recent time. On our own, we do 25,000 in two days, but on the first day at the trade fair, we do 30,000 in one day. It shows capacity when you work with Lagos State. So, this has been an amazing one. We really do appreciate, and we love the fact that Lagos is for businesses.”

Speaking on the success and impact of the trade fair, Bahijja Ahmad Wasai, a vendor dealing in cosmetics, who came from Kano State for the trade fair, said the organisation of the Lagos Tourism and NBC Trade Fair should be a template for the organisation of other trade fairs.

She said, “I have participated in many trade fairs, but this particular trade fair is different from what we are used to. This is something different that we are witnessing.

“The trade fair was fantastic. It was the best fair in terms of organisation and it was the most intense in terms of sales. This is one of the best trade fairs I have ever witnessed so far. It has been a back-to-back trade with a large population.

“We will like to thank the Lagos State government in particular because they have been very supportive from the beginning. The governor of Lagos State has really tried for vendors in terms of organisation and everything. We will like to see more of this.”

Also speaking, another vendor, Mrs. Blessing Aregbesola, who deals in clothing, said the trade fair was a wonderful experience.

“We are so grateful to participate in this exhibition because it has been a wonderful experience. The turnout is massive. It is a great experience. So, we thank Lagos Tourism and Naija Brand Chick. We are grateful to them.

“We say a big thank you to the Lagos State Government for organising this wonderful event. We appreciate them. We are saying thank you from the depths of our hearts. We appreciate the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Special Adviser on Arts, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe.”

The post Trade fair: Lagos reiterates continuous support for SMEs appeared first on Frontpageng.

Speaking during a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, on Thursday to unveil Lagos value-driven partnership with Naija Brand Chick, Aregbe said the alliance between the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Naija Brand Chick is designed to significantly amplify the impact of the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair, an event that will serve as a catalyst for the entrepreneurial community in Lagos.

The CEO of Naija Brand Chick, Ms. Nelly Agbogu; CEO, Council of Arts and Culture, Mr. Idowu Johnson; Nollywood producer and actress, Mrs. Toyin Abraham-Ajewole; Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, LSETF, Feyisayo Alayande, who was represented by Ms. Sherifat Balogun, and other speakers during the press conference expressed their commitment and readiness to partner with the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture for the success of the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair, taking place from June 14 to 16 at Whitestone Event, Ikeja.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, said the partnership was about taking the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade to unprecedented heights, adding that the historic event would mark the beginning of a new era in hospitality and trade fair in the state.

He said: “This alliance is not just about cooperation; it’s about amplification. It is about taking the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair to unprecedented heights, where it serves as a pivotal catalyst for our entrepreneurial community.

“Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and with the steadfast support of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, we aim for nothing short of excellence.

“Our ambitious goal of N5 billion in sales speaks volumes about our commitment to driving economic growth and prosperity.

“This year’s fair will be a convergence of diverse sectors, spanning Lifestyle and Home, Fashion and Personal Care, Services and Innovation, Arts and Craft, Adventure and Recreation, Travel and Hospitality, Cultural and Recreational Attractions. It is a testament to our unwavering dedication to inclusivity and diversity.

READ ALSO: Road crash:  One dies, three injured, N8.7m recovered

“With an anticipated influx of participants and visitors, the fair will provide an unparalleled platform for vendors and entrepreneurs to showcase their offerings, connect with a wider audience, and contribute to the vibrant economic landscape of Lagos.”

Speaking further, Aregbe said: “The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture stands firm in its mission to nurture our rich cultural heritage, promote artistic endeavours, and propel the tourism sector forward as a cornerstone of economic development.

“Together, let us embark on this transformative journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future for Lagos State.”

In her comment, Ms. Nelly Agbogu recalled the past edition of the trade fair in the state, which, according to her, took place at Lekki.

The CEO of NBC, who disclosed that entry was free for all Lagos residents for the trade fair, assured traders of adequate security of lives and property during the event.

“We started the programme at Lekki. Today, I am excited, and I am certain it will grow businesses in Lagos. There will be a lot of sales for our business owners. I appreciate Lagos for partnering with us,” she said.

Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture is dedicated to nurturing the diverse cultural heritage of Lagos, fostering the arts, and championing the growth of the tourism sector as a pivotal element for economic progress.

The post Trade fair: Lagos spearheads value-driven collaboration with NBC appeared first on Frontpageng.

Director-General of NBC, Balarabe Shehu llelah, gave the warning in a letter to the Chief Executive Officer of Arise Global Limited and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday in Abuja.

In the letter titled “Preponderance of derogatory and incendiary remarks: Final warning”, Ilelah said the commission had observed with concern, the preponderance of incendiary remarks allowed on Arise News.

“This letter once again seeks to underscore the tremendous responsibility put on the broadcaster to manage array of guests that may feature on the station from time to time.

“For the benefit of doubt, on Oct. 5 during the programme – ‘The Morning Show’, anchored by Reuben Abati, Rufai Useni and Ayo Mairo Ese, featured Oladotun Hassan and Dele Farotimi as guests.

“The programme contained unguarded incendiary remarks by Dele Farotimi against the legislature, executive, judiciary and Mr President.

“Similarly, on Oct. 6, during the programme “Newsday”, it featured Kenneth Okonkwo (Spokesperson for Labour Party) who used derogatory remarks on air.

“Your attention is therefore drawn to the relevant sections of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code for compliance please,” Ilelah said.

The NBC boss explained further that section 1.10.3 says the broadcaster shall ensure that its presenter does not express his or her opinion in the programme, as a matter of professional standard.

He said section 3.3.1 (a) stipulates that the broadcaster shall ensure that any information given in a programme, in whatever form, is accurate.

READ ALSO: EXTRA: The Nonsense we now call Nurse, By Bamidele Johnson

Ilelah said 3.3.3 (c) provided that the broadcaster shall be above inherent biases, prejudices and subjective mindsets.

According to section 3.3.1(e), the Broadcaster shall not treat any individual or organisation in an unjust and unfair manner in any programme.

The NBC boss further explained that section 5.3.3(b) of the code stated that the broadcaster shall, in using political materials for news and current affairs programmes, avoid hate speech, inflammatory, derogatory, and divisive remarks of allusions.

“Section 5.5.6 says, the broadcaster shall have a delay mechanism to guard against possible undesirable content.

“Arise TV is advised to install a delay mechanism to guard against possible undesirable contents as prescribed in Section 5.5.6 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

“Please note that henceforth, your station shall be held liable for any infraction on your platform and applicable sanctions shall be imposed as prescribed by Law,” Ilelah stressed.

Source: NAN

The post Broadcasting code: NBC serves Arise TV final warning on ‘violation’ appeared first on Frontpageng.

“Jaiye Lo” is a new music video by Logos Olori, a new artist with Davido.

“In the video, some people dressed in white jalabiyas like Muslims were seen praying the way Muslims do before launching into dancing as they recited some Quranic verses and prayed.

“Mats were spread for those praying behind an ‘Imam’ who used the popular single-prayer rug (sajadah). Those who were praying also read out what looked like Muslim recitations in Arabic language and prostrated the way Muslims do in prayer.

“Logos Olori himself was seen sitting on the roof of a mosque-like building mounted with a horn public address system thus creating the complete impression of a mosque scenario,” MURIC explained in a statement.

In the statement issued on Monday, the executive director of the group, Professor Ishaq Akintola, described the video as “luciferous.”

He added: “Logos Olori’s musical video is insensitive to Muslim feelings while Davido himself added salt to the injury on the Muslim anatomy by promoting the video in his tweet. There is no iota of doubt that both men, Davido and his signee have no modicum of respect for the faith of Islam. They have provoked millions of Nigerian Muslims.

READ ALSO: Makinde bows to MURIC’s pressure, removes name from mosque

The statement reads:

“Logos Olori, an artist under David Adeleke, a.k.a. Davido, a Nigerian singer, recently released a music video with the caption, ‘Jaye Lo’. In the video, some people dressed in white jalabiyas like Muslims were seen praying the way Muslims do before launching into dancing as they recited some Quranic verses and prayed.

“Mats were spread for those praying behind an ‘Imam’ who used the popular single-prayer rug (sajadah). Those who were praying also read out what looked like Muslim recitations in Arabic language and prostrated the way Muslims do in prayer.

“Logos Olori himself was seen sitting on the roof of a mosque-like building mounted with a horn public address system thus creating the complete impression of a mosque scenario.

“There is no doubt that the scene in the music video is the setting of a Muslim prayer session but mixing it with singing and dancing is utterly wrong in concept and grossly misleading in content. In like manner, sitting on top of a ‘mosque’ or what looks like it with the type of loud speaker used on top of mosques is most primitive, extremely serpentine and categorically unacceptable.

“Thousands of Nigerian Muslims have expressed displeasure with the new music video and the Nigerian media have published their reactions (https://punchng.com/muslim-fans-knock-logos-olori-davido-over-controversial-video/; https://leadership.ng/muslim-fans-slam-davidos-signee-logos-oloros-controversial-music-video/; https://dailypost.ng/2023/07/22/muslims-kick-against-davidos-signee-logos-oloros-offensive-music-video/).

“Our office in particular has been inundated with complaints against this luciferous music video. Nigerian Muslims find the juxtaposition of Muslims in prayer session with the same Muslims singing and dancing offensive, repugnant and provocative.

“Logos Olori’s musical video is insensitive to Muslim feelings while Davido himself added salt to the injury on the Muslim anatomy by promoting the video in his tweet. There is no iota of doubt that both men, Davido and his signee have no modicum of respect for the faith of Islam. They have provoked millions of Nigerian Muslims.

“We remind Nigerians of several religious riots in the past which were caused by provocative artworks. Those religious riots claimed hundreds of lives while properties worth billions of naira were destroyed by angry rioters. What Davido and Logos Olori have done with this video is equivalent to seeking a repeat destruction of lives and properties in the country. All level-headed and right-thinking Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliations, must condemn it.

“We therefore alert men of the Department of State Services to invite both men for questioning to explain why they chose to produce and promote a musical video capable of igniting anarchy in Nigeria.

“In the same vein, we invite the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and the National Film And Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to immediately ban the insensitive musical video captioned ‘Jaye Lo’ by Logos Olori.

“MURIC objects to the lame excuse often given by Nigerian agencies charged with moderation responsibilities who claim that separate petitions should be addressed to them by complainants before they can take action. It does not work that way in saner climes. Nigerian agencies must be proactive.

“They must spring to action from the moment attention is drawn to an infraction capable of causing a breach of the peace so long as the authors of the infringement have been identified and whether or not the information contained an appeal to the monitoring agency or agencies. The agencies are, essentially, an integral part of the general public. They should therefore act without being prompted.

“To expect separate petitions before taking action is to empower criminals, delay justice and encourage a culture of procrastination (which is the thief of time). We also believe that such agencies should be held accountable if trouble breaks out due to their lackadaisical attitude.

“We hereby give Davido and Logos Olori seven days ultimatum to pull down the music video or face spiritual or legal action or both. That video is a mockery of Muslim spiritual life and practice. We will therefore employ a spiritual weapon on those who attack our spiritual way of life.

“At this juncture, we call on Nigerian Muslims to start reciting Al-Qunut after seven days from today, Monday, 24th July, 2023 if the horrendously offensive video is not pulled down within seven days.

“Nonetheless, we appeal to Muslims throughout the country to remain calm and law abiding. No Muslim should attack Davido or Logos Olori. Gone are those days of spontaneous violent reactions. A social and mental re-engineering campaign has succeeded in changing that perspective.

“For the avoidance of doubt and for the sake of microscopic clarity, we assert that we Muslims do not joke with our religion. Others may, but that is their cup of tea. It amounts to artistic fanaticism to erode on the freedom and happiness of others with any kind of artwork.

“It further proves our point that there is fanaticism in places other than religion. Extreme fanaticism exists in football and music. You are a fanatic once you love a football team or a music star to the extreme. On the other hand, a fanatical musician will manifest insensitivity to the faith of others. To this extent and from this perspective, Logos Olori’s ‘Jaye Lo’ is an exercise in musical extremism.

“MURIC will not stand akimbo while our religion is desecrated by those who lack respect for people’s faith. MURIC was instrumental to the banning of Falz’ ‘This is Nigeria’ video and the shaku shaku drug dance in June 2018. Logos Olori’s ‘Jaye Lo’ will suffer the same fate.

“Nigerian artists must learn to leave Muslims alone with their ways of life. We will continue to employ every legitimate means to stop them in their attempt to ridicule our faith. There are more than enough themes under the sky for artists to pick.

“We believe that it smirks of desertification of artistic versatility for any artist to insist on attacking the faith of any people instead of picking his or her theme from the rich diversifications which nature has availed all and sundry. A lazy artist deserves no crown.”

The post MURIC to Davido: Pull down ‘Jaiye Lo’ video or risk spiritual action appeared first on Frontpageng.

The Director-General of NBC, Mallam Balarabe Ilelah, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

He said: “The attention of the National Broadcasting Commission has been drawn to a ruling by the Federal High Court, Abuja nullifying its powers to impose fines on broadcast stations that violate the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

“In view of the foregoing, the commission has applied for a Certified Copy of the judgment.

“It is global best practice and the ethics of the legal profession, that no party to a suit can freely comment on a judgment it has not seen and read.

“The commission will appeal against the judgment when found to be in conflict with previous judgments of the court, which empowers the commission to regulate broadcasting in Nigeria.”

A Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, gave an order of perpetual injunction restraining NBC from imposing fines, henceforth, on broadcast stations in the country.

Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment, also set aside the N500,000 fines imposed, on March 1, 2019, on each of the 45 broadcast stations.

Omotosho held that the NBC, not being a court of law, had no power to impose sanctions as punishment on broadcast stations.

He further held that the NBC Code, which gives the commission the power to impose sanction, is in conflict with Section 6 of the Constitution that vested judicial power in the court of law.

The judge said that the court would not sit idle and watch a body imposing fine arbitrarily without recourse to the law.

He said that the commission did not comply with the law when it sat as a complainant and at the same time, the court and the judge on its own matter.

The judge agreed that the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, being a subsidiary legislation that empowers an administrative body such as the NBC to enforce its provisions cannot confer judicial powers on the commission to impose criminal sanctions or penalties such as fines.

Source: NAN

The post NBC to appeal judgment barring it from imposing fines appeared first on Frontpageng.