Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has sounded the alarm over what he described as increasing threats to press freedom in Nigeria, warning that recent regulatory actions signal a dangerous drift away from democratic principles.
In a statement shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, Obi condemned what he termed “very troubling” developments in the broadcast space, particularly referencing a recent advisory issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Yesterday’s advocates of democracy, today’s oppressor of the press… Nigeria is drifting dangerously,” Obi said, in a pointed critique that appears directed at authorities overseeing media regulation.
The former Anambra State governor argued that a free and responsible press should not be perceived as adversarial, especially by administrations that claim democratic credentials.
He stressed that the media plays a central role in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
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“Attempting to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weakens our already fragile democracy,” he added.
Obi’s comments are coming in response to the NBC’s warning to broadcast stations over what it described as a surge in ethical violations, including presenters passing personal opinions as facts and failing to maintain balance in reporting.
The commission had cautioned that breaches of the NBC would attract sanctions as the country approaches another election cycle.
However, Obi rejected the approach, insisting that regulatory oversight must not become a tool for suppressing dissent or controlling narratives.
“Institutions are not built to serve governments; they are built to serve the people,” he said.
Shifting focus to broader national concerns, Obi criticised what he described as misplaced priorities, noting that the country is grappling with worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and declining public trust.
“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 stated.
Also, he expressed solidarity with media organisations across the country, commending their resilience amid mounting pressures.
“I stand in solidarity with Nigeria’s media houses and broadcasters who are standing against this attempt to silence independent voices and restrict free expression,” Obi said.
He called for institutional independence and accountability, warning that Nigeria’s democracy could be further endangered if current trends persist.
“Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions,” he added.
