NBC fines DAAR communications N500,000 for breach of code

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has imposed a fine of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only), on DAAR Communications Group over what it described as flagrant and persistent infringement of the provisions of the NBC code.

The NBC Director General, Mallam Is’haq Modibbo Kawu who announced the fine alleged that the NBC had marked as sensational and heated expression of opinion by anchors of political platform’s episodes of Tuesday, 24th July, 2018.

In a statement by its Head, Public Affairs, Mrs. Maimuna Jimada Kawu stated that the commission arrived at the decision after several meetings with staff of DAAR Communications which according to them had on each occasion expressed concern on the unprofessional manner anchor persons have been handling the programme.

“The Commission had on 2nd May, 2017, 15th August, 2017 and 7th February, 2018 held meetings with staff of DAAR Communications and on each occasion, the Director General had expressed concern on the unprofessional manner anchor persons have been handling the programme.

“He had charged the team on all occasions to be fair and balanced in their reportage devoid of expression of personal opinions. He also at the last meeting on 7th February, 2018 sounded a note of warning to DAAR Communications to ensure compliance in order to avoid stiff sanctions.

“Political Platform’s episode of Tuesday, 24th July, 2018 was marked by sensational and heated expression of opinion by its anchors, who went on to make unproven and inciting allegations,” it stated.

Kawu further reiterated that broadcasting stations must ensure that anchors of their programmes are well informed and properly trained on the ethics of the profession as well as the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code as the Commission would impose severe sanctions for any breach of the Broadcasting Code. The station is required to redeem the fine within two weeks from the date of receipt of the letter of fine.

Quote:
“Political Platform’s episode of Tuesday, 24th July, 2018 was marked by sensational and heated expression of opinion by its anchors, who went on to make unproven and inciting allegations”. – NBC