Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has warned that while the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) stated that the revocation of licenses of operation of African Independent Television (AIT), Silverbird TV and other broadcast stations has no political motive, it has attendant consequences at this time that the country is faced with security challenges.
Newsonline reports that NUJ in a statement signed by its National President, Chris Isiguzo, stated that the country cannot afford the unpleasant outcome of such media blackout at this time.
Chris Isiguzo on Friday, also said that the Director General of NBC, Malam Balarabe Shehu Ilelah action of wholesale revocation of licenses appeared as a decision taken without careful counsel.
He said, “It should be noted that this wholesale revocation of licenses at this critical time of insecurity in the Country appears to be a decision taken without careful prior deliberation, consultation or counsel.
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“While we regret the inability of these broadcast stations to fulfill their obligations to NBC, in view of dwindling resources, we caution against such large-scale clampdown of broadcast stations in disregard to security issues and the attendant consequence. We cannot afford the unpleasant outcome of such media blackout at this time.”
Recall that National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Friday, Today, gave African Independent Television, Silverbird Television and the broadcasting corporations run by various state governments within 24 hours to shut down their operations over debts amounting to at least N2.6bn.
According to NBC, the broadcast stations have been operating illegally since 2018 when their licenses of operation expired.
Also, the management of AIT, DAAR Communications in response to the license revocation said it has engaged with the NBC office to find solution to the issue raised by the monitoring body.
“The National Broadcasting Commission, NBC has given 52 broadcast stations across the country including Africa Independent Television, AIT and Raypower Networks 24 hours to settle outstanding license fees or face revocation of their operating licenses.
“The Board and Management of DAAR Communications PLC, assures audiences of AIT and Raypower of engagement with NBC towards resolving the issue,” AIT management said.
