Don’t Embarrass Buhari With Lekki Shooting Images, NBC Warns TV Stations

By Ayodele Oluwafemi

The National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) has warned broadcast stations against embarrassing the Muhammadu Buhari administration with the use of User-Generated Content (UGC) in the coverage  of the ongoing #EndSARS protest.

NBC noted that it has keen interest in the coverage and reportage of the #EndSARS, stressing that media houses should be conscious of their roles as gatekeepers and the fourth estate of the realm.

The regulatory agency, in a statement, on Tuesday night, said media houses should prevent embarrassment of “individuals, organisations, government or cause disaffection, incite to panic or rift in the society at large.”

NBC’s statement came after the social media was flooded with videos depicting soldiers shooting at unarmed protesters at Lekki toll gate.

The agency wrote, “In specific terms, the commission enjoined broadcasters to take definite note of the following provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code to further guide their broadcast during this challenging time.

“The sections of the broadcasting code extracted by the NBC as a reminder for media houses are:

“1.3.3 Broadcast technology enables the broadcaster to bring information on issues of concern to the audience with immediacy. In the event of a crisis, the advantages of broadcast technologies may be used but not in a manner to aggravate the situation or adversely affect those emotionally involved;

“5.4.1 (b) At all times, ensure that the coverage of a disaster or crisis is aimed at the overall public interest, guidance, and safety;

“5.4.3 In reporting conflict situations, the broadcaster shall perform the role of a peace agent by adhering to the principle of responsibility, accuracy, and neutrality;

“5.6.2 The broadcaster shall approach with restraints, the use of materials from user-generated sources in order not to embarrass individuals, organisations, government or cause disaffection, incite to panic or rift in the society at large.”

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