CSU Controversy: NBC Issues Final Warning to Arise TV Over Derogatory Remarks

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a stern warning to Arise Television regarding the use of derogatory and incendiary language on their station. This warning comes in the midst of the ongoing controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s academic records, which were recently released by Chicago State University.

Arise TV has been actively engaging in discussions and interviews aimed at educating the public about the implications of President Tinubu’s certificate, which the opposition claims does not match the one submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the previous election.

However, the NBC, in a letter sent by its Director General, Balarabe Shehu Ilelah, on Friday, expressed deep concern over the use of derogatory language by some of the guests during these interviews. The broadcasting regulator has urged Arise TV to implement a delay mechanism to prevent the dissemination of undesirable content and ensure that guests maintain a respectful tone.

The letter, titled “Preponderance of derogatory and incendiary remarks: final warning,” emphasizes the significant responsibility placed on the broadcaster to manage the conduct of its guests. The NBC pointed out specific instances of concern, such as a morning show program on October 5th, featuring guests Oladokun Hassan and Dele Farotimi, during which derogatory remarks were made against the Legislature, the Executive, the Judiciary, and the President.

Additionally, the NBC raised issues with Arise TV’s program “Newsday,” which featured Kenneth Okonkwo, Spokesperson of the Labour Party, using derogatory language on air. The commission has reminded the broadcast station of various broadcasting rules and codes that it needs to adhere to.

In response to these concerns, Arise TV has been advised to install a delay mechanism in line with section 5.5.6 of the broadcasting code to prevent the broadcast of undesirable content and maintain the integrity of their programming.