- The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is responding to public concerns regarding the Big Brother Naija reality show.
- Season 10 of the show has faced scrutiny for potential violations of Nigeria’s broadcasting regulations.
- The show launched over two days, raising issues among viewers and regulators.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has addressed increasing public concerns over the ongoing Big Brother Naija reality show.
Season 10 of the programme, which launched over two days, has come under scrutiny for allegedly violating Nigeria’s broadcasting regulations.
Responding to a petition from human rights lawyer Maduabuchi Idam, who called for either a ban or strict restrictions on the show in public spaces, the NBC expressed worry over what it described as a “blatant” disregard for the nation’s broadcast code.
In a statement signed by Pauline Ehusani, the Commission’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, NBC confirmed receipt of the petition and assured that its management is reviewing the matter. The regulator said it would take necessary steps to ensure adherence to the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
The statement read in part:
“Please be informed that the Commission is equally concerned with the brazen contravention of the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code (6th Edition) which clearly prohibit the airing of obscene content.”
NBC noted that the National Broadcasting Commission Act (Cap N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004) grants it the authority to take action against any broadcaster in breach of the rules.
The Commission further encouraged viewers to report any inappropriate BBNaija content on social media, adding that consistent flagging could lead to its permanent removal from online platforms.
“In the same vein, the Commission is tasking you and other well-meaning Nigerians to immediately flag such content as soon as it appears on social media; if flagged enough, such content could be taken down permanently,” the statement added.
In his petition, Idam argued that the show has lost its creative and entertainment value, claiming it now regularly airs explicit scenes that disregard public morals.
The lawyer pointed out that the current season only two weeks in has already showcased “unrestrained obscene displays,” surpassing the content of previously banned music videos.
He questioned why the NBC could prohibit songs such as Don’t Stop by Olamide and Tesojue by Reminisce for indecency, yet continue to allow BBNaija to air without similar sanctions.
Idam issued a 30-day ultimatum for NBC to take decisive action, urging the regulator to either take the programme off-air completely or limit it to highly restricted channels inaccessible to minors and unwilling audiences.
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