The federal government has sanctioned Channels Television, accusing it of breaking broadcast regulations during an interview with the vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Datti Baba-Ahmed.
Mr Baba-Ahmed warned during the programme on March 22 that swearing in Bola Tinubu as president would violate the constitution.
Mr Tinubu, former governor of Lagos, was declared winner of the Feb. 25 presidential election, but the LP and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party rejected the results and have launched a legal challenge.
Mr Tinubu filed a complaint about Mr Baba-Ahmed’s interview to the NBC on March 30, Punch reported.
– Why this matters
The Nigerian government routinely punishes television and radio stations in the country on allegations of violations of the country’s broadcast codes. Press freedom groups criticise such sanctions as attempts to stifle the media and freedom of expression.
– Learn more
In the latest case, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) imposed a N5 million fine on Channels TV in a March 27 letter, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
The agency said the interview with Mr Baba-Ahmed was “volatile and capable of inciting public disorder” and referenced a section of the broadcasting code warning broadcasters against programmes that contain details that could amount to subversion of constituted authority.
“Dr Baba-Ahmed said it will be unconstitutional to swear in an elected president on May 29, 2023, because of election irregularities,” the letter said, according to NAN.
“Consequently, on the following infractions, Channels Television is hereby sanctioned and shall pay a penalty of N5,000,000 (five million naira) only in the first instance,” he said.
The channel has two weeks to pay or could a graduated increase.
Channels TV management could not be immediately reached Friday night for comments.
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