The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a stern final warning to Arise Television, a prominent news outlet, over the consistent use of derogatory and incendiary language on its broadcasts.
The warning, conveyed in a letter by Dr. Balarabe Shehu Ilelah, the Director-General of the NBC, on October 6, 2023, has raised concerns about the station’s content and its ability to maintain decorum.
The letter, addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of Arise Global Media Limited, called upon the TV station to implement a delay mechanism to prevent undesirable content from reaching its audience.
Also, it emphasized the station’s responsibility to exercise control over the behavior and remarks of its guests.
The NBC specifically cited instances from Arise TV’s programs, including a morning show featuring guests Oladokun Hassan and Dele Farotimi, during which Farotimi made unguarded incendiary remarks against various branches of government and the President.
Another incident involved Kenneth Okonkwo, the Spokesperson of the Labour Party, using derogatory language during the “Newsday” program.
The NBC pointed out that Arise TV’s actions violated several broadcasting rules and codes, including sections 1.10.3, 3.3.1(a), 3.3.3(c), 3.3.1(e), 5.3.3(b), and 5.5.6.
To prevent further breaches, the station has been strongly advised to implement a delay mechanism, as prescribed in section 5.5.6 of the broadcasting code.
This final warning highlights the regulatory body’s commitment to ensuring responsible journalism and respectful discourse in the Nigerian media landscape.
Arise Television now faces the challenge of reforming its practices to align with NBC regulations or risk further consequences.