Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has condemned the fines reportedly imposed by the National Broadcasting Commission on Channels TV, AIT and Arise TV over their coverage of the EndSARS protests.
In a statement issued, SERAP said that it will sue the NBC if the fines are not rescinded within 48 hours.
It said that the action by NBC is yet another example of the Nigerian authorities’ push to silence independent media and voices.
SERAP urged NBC to drop the fines and uphold the Nigerian constitution and international obligations to respect and protect freedom of expression and media freedom.
The statement said:
“The fines are detrimental to freedom of expression and the media, and access to information in Nigeria, and the NBC must withdraw the decision.
“Media freedom and media plurality are a central part of the effective exercise of freedom of expression and access to information.
“The ability to practice journalism free from undue interference, to cover peaceful protests, and critical views are crucial to the exercise of many other rights and freedoms.
“The media has a vital role to play as ‘public watchdog’ in imparting information of serious public concern and should not be inhibited or intimidated from playing that role.
“The NBC should stop targeting and intimidating independent media and voices.”
