The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has fined Channels Television a total sum of N5 million over Datti Baba-Ahmed's comments during his recent interview in a popular TV program, Politics Today.
While speaking on Channels Television, Datti Baba-Ahmed asked Olukayode Ariwoola, the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), not to swear in Bola Tinubu as president.
Based on his comment, the National Broadcasting Commission slammed Channels Television for a sum of N5 million naira in a letter dated 27 March 2023 which was 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.
Balarabe said the interview was volatile and capable of inciting public disorder and therefore violated some sections of the broadcasting code.
The letter read in part:
“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,”
“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.”