NBC fines Channels TV N5m over Datti’s ‘no president-elect’ remark

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has fined Channels Telvision N5 million over a recent interview with Datti Baba-Ahmed, vice presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP).

Last week, while speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme, Baba-Ahmed asked Olukayode Ariwoola, the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), not to swear in Bola Tinubu as president.

The LP vice-presidential candidate said there is no president-elect because Tinubu did not allegedly meet the requirements of the constitution.

According to NAN, the fine was contained in a letter dated March 27 addressed to the chief executive officer of Channels Television.

The letter titled “Broadcast of an Inciting Interview, A Sanction” was signed by Balarabe Ilelah, director-general of NBC.

He said the broadcast was volatile and capable of inciting public disorder and therefore violated some sections of the broadcasting code.

“The NBC monitored the broadcast of a live interview of the running mate of the Labour Party Vice presidential candidate, Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed, by the anchor of Politics Today, Seun Okibaloye, on Wednesday, March 22,” NAN quoted Ilelah.

“Dr Baba-Ahmed said it will be unconstitutional to swear in an elected president on May 29, 2023, because of election irregularities.

“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.

“You are advised to pay within two weeks from the day of receipt of this letter or the penalty will be graduated.”