NBC directs broadcasting stations to suspend Twitter handles

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has directed all broadcast stations in Nigeria to immediately suspend the use of Twitter.

According to a statement released on Monday, June 7th by the acting Director-General of the NBC, Prof. Armstrong Idachaba, Broadcasting Stations should de-install Twitter handles and desist from using the platform as a source of information gathering for News and programme.

The statement titled, ‘Suspend Twitter handles’ reads,

“Consequent on the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria by the Federal Government over the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining the corporate existence of Nigeria, the National Broadcasting Commission directs all Broadcasting Stations in Nigeria to suspend the patronage of Twitter immediately.

“In Compliance to the above directive, Broadcasting Stations are hereby advised to de-install Twitter handles and desist from using Twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for News and programmes Presentation especially phone-in.

“Section 2(1) r of the NBC Act entrusts the Commission with responsibility to ensure strict adherence to the national laws, rules and regulations. Also, Section 3.11.2 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code provides that “the broadcaster shall ensure that law enforcement is upheld at all times in a matter depicting that law and order are socially superior to or more desirable than crime and anarchy.”