A coalition of media watchdog organizations, including the League of Public Affairs Analysts and the South East Media Professionals Network, has submitted a formal petition to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), urging decisive action against Arise TV and Dr. Reuben Abati for allegedly unprofessional and divisive remarks made during the Arise TV Breakfast Show on November 21, 2024.
The petition, signed by Ambrose Igboke, Ph.D., expressed concerns over comments by Dr. Abati that purportedly perpetuated harmful stereotypes about the Igbo community.
According to the coalition, the remarks have been amplified by extremist groups such as Lagospidia, further exacerbating ethnic tensions in a sensitive socio-political environment.
Key Issues Highlighted in the Petition
The coalition raised the following points:
Reinforcement of Harmful Stereotypes: The petition notes that Dr. Abati’s comments depicted the Igbo people negatively, warning that such narratives could inflame ethnic tensions. The coalition drew parallels to the Rwandan genocide, where inflammatory broadcasts played a pivotal role in igniting violence.
Amplification by Divisive Groups: The coalition criticized the rapid weaponization of Dr. Abati’s remarks by anti-Igbo groups, which they say undermines national unity.
Unethical On-Air Conduct: Dr. Abati’s allegedly hostile interaction with a colleague, Ms. Ojy Okpe, on the subsequent day’s broadcast was described as a breach of professional standards.
Violation of Broadcasting Code: The petition argues that the comments and subsequent behavior contravene the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, which prohibits incitement and hate speech.
Urgent Demands to NBC
The coalition has urged the NBC to:
Investigate the Broadcast: Conduct a detailed review of the remarks and the editorial oversight that allowed such content to air.
Hold Arise TV Accountable: Mandate a public apology from Arise TV and ensure stricter editorial standards.
Sanction Dr. Abati: Require Dr. Abati to issue a public apology and face appropriate disciplinary measures.
Promote Inter-Ethnic Harmony: Encourage Arise TV to create programming that fosters national unity and counters divisive narratives.
Monitor Extremist Propaganda: Collaborate with relevant agencies to prevent the misuse of broadcast platforms by extremist entities.
Advocating for Responsible Journalism
While emphasizing the critical role of the media in maintaining national cohesion in Nigeria’s diverse society, the coalition acknowledged the importance of open dialogue in a democracy, and stressed that such discussions must be conducted with responsibility and respect.
The coalition concluded by urging media practitioners to adhere to ethical standards and avoid actions that could deepen divisions or threaten national unity.
Igbofacts reports that this petition underscores the delicate balance between free expression and the media’s responsibility to promote peace and mutual understanding in a multicultural society.
