#EndSARS: NBC Reminds Broadcast Stations Of Rules On Coverage Of Crisis

As the #EndSARS protest continues in the country, the National
Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has reminded broadcast stations in
the country of the rules on coverage of crisis.

The management of the NBC, in a statement issued in Abuja,
however, said it monitored with keen interest, the coverage and
reportage of the on-going protest on the #EndSARS campaign and
noted that broadcasters have so far been conscious of their role as
gatekeepers and the fourth estate of the realm.

“In specific terms, the commission enjoined broadcasters to take
definite note of the following provisions of the Nigeria
Broadcasting Code to further guide their broadcast during this
challenging time:

“1.3.3 Broadcast technology enables the broadcaster to bring
information on issues of concern to the audience with immediacy. In
the event of a crisis, the advantages of broadcast technologies may
be used, but not in a manner to aggravate the situation or
adversely affect those emotionally involved;

“5.4.1 (b) At all times, ensure that the coverage of a disaster
or crisis is aimed at the overall public interest, guidance and
safety;

“5.4.3 In reporting conflict situations, the broadcaster shall
perform the role of a peace agent by adhering to the principle of
responsibility, accuracy and neutrality; and

“5.6.2 The broadcaster shall approach with restraints, the use
of materials from user generated sources in order not to embarrass
individuals, organisations, government or cause disaffection,
incite to panic or rift in the society at large,” the NBC said.

The NBC further reiterated that broadcasters have a duty to
promote the corporate existence of Nigeria, and the socio-economic
well-being of the Nigerian State.

“The Commission urges all broadcasters to continue to provide
efficient, professional and comprehensive service to the people
based on national objectives and aspirations,” the NBC also
said.

As the #EndSARS protest continues in the country, the National
Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has reminded broadcast stations in
the country of the rules on coverage of crisis.

The management of the NBC, in a statement issued in Abuja,
however, said it monitored with keen interest, the coverage and
reportage of the on-going protest on the #EndSARS campaign and
noted that broadcasters have so far been conscious of their role as
gatekeepers and the fourth estate of the realm.

“In specific terms, the commission enjoined broadcasters to take
definite note of the following provisions of the Nigeria
Broadcasting Code to further guide their broadcast during this
challenging time:

“1.3.3 Broadcast technology enables the broadcaster to bring
information on issues of concern to the audience with immediacy. In
the event of a crisis, the advantages of broadcast technologies may
be used, but not in a manner to aggravate the situation or
adversely affect those emotionally involved;

“5.4.1 (b) At all times, ensure that the coverage of a disaster
or crisis is aimed at the overall public interest, guidance and
safety;

“5.4.3 In reporting conflict situations, the broadcaster shall
perform the role of a peace agent by adhering to the principle of
responsibility, accuracy and neutrality; and

“5.6.2 The broadcaster shall approach with restraints, the use
of materials from user generated sources in order not to embarrass
individuals, organisations, government or cause disaffection,
incite to panic or rift in the society at large,” the NBC said.

The NBC further reiterated that broadcasters have a duty to
promote the corporate existence of Nigeria, and the socio-economic
well-being of the Nigerian State.

“The Commission urges all broadcasters to continue to provide
efficient, professional and comprehensive service to the people
based on national objectives and aspirations,” the NBC also
said.