A Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from using its recent “Formal Notice” to threaten, sanction, or punish broadcast stations and presenters over issues such as expressing opinions, alleged lack of neutrality, or how they engage guests.
Justice Daniel Osiagor granted the interim injunction on Monday following an ex parte application filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE). The suit was argued by their counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN.
SERAP and NGE had challenged the legality of provisions in the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, arguing that the NBC was relying on vague and overbroad rules to intimidate broadcasters and restrict freedom of expression. They asked the court to determine whether those provisions violate the 1999 Constitution and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.
In its ruling, the court barred the NBC and its agents from enforcing or imposing sanctions under several contested sections of the Broadcasting Code, pending determination of the main motion. The case was adjourned to 1 June 2026.
Following the ruling, SERAP and NGE described it as a major win for media freedom, constitutional rights, and the rule of law, urging the NBC to comply fully with the court order.
Justice Osiagor held that the injunction will remain in place until the substantive motion is heard, effectively halting enforcement of the disputed provisions for now.