Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has launched a scathing attack on the Federal Government and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), accusing them of abandoning democratic ideals and sliding into authoritarian control of the media.
In a strongly worded statement posted on his X handle, Obi warned that Nigeria is “drifting dangerously,” citing the NBC’s recent directive to broadcasters as a troubling sign of shrinking press freedom, particularly at a time when the country should be reinforcing democratic institutions ahead of elections.
Obi did not mince words, describing the development as a betrayal by those who once championed democracy but now appear intent on silencing dissenting voices. He argued that a free press should never be treated as an adversary, stressing that the media remains “the conscience of the nation.”
He cautioned that attempts to “stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation” would only weaken Nigeria’s already fragile democratic framework.
The former Anambra governor also took a swipe at the government’s priorities, saying it was misplaced to focus on controlling media narratives while the country grapples with worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and growing disillusionment among young Nigerians.
“Institutions are not built to serve governments; they are built to serve the people,” Obi declared, insisting that Nigeria needs stronger, independent institutions, not tighter control.
He expressed solidarity with media organisations and broadcasters resisting what he described as an attempt to suppress free expression, urging a return to transparency, accountability, and institutional independence.
Obi’s intervention adds to mounting criticism from civil society and media stakeholders, who fear that the NBC’s directive signals a dangerous turn toward censorship and democratic erosion in Africa’s largest democracy.
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