The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the authority of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to impose fines on bro...
The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the authority of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to impose fines on broadcast stations.
The landmark ruling, following a legal challenge by Media Rights Agenda (MRA), declared void the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code allowing such fines.
Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia commended MRA for challenging the fines imposed by the NBC in 2022, stating that the regulatory body exceeded its powers.
The court issued a perpetual injunction against the NBC, restraining it from imposing fines on any media platform in Nigeria. Previously imposed fines on Multichoice Nigeria Limited (DSTV), TelCom Satellite Limited (TSTV), Trust-TV Network Limited, and NTA Startimes Limited were set aside. Human rights lawyer Mr. Uche Amulu, representing MRA, argued that NBC's fines were unlawful and unconstitutional, posing a threat to freedom of expression rights. The court concurred, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding media independence in a democratic society.
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