A coalition of media watchdog organizations, including the League of Public Affairs Analysts and South East Media Professionals Network, has submitted a petition to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) calling for swift action against Arise TV and Dr. Reuben Abati, for unprofessional and divisive comments made during the Arise TV Breakfast Show on 21st November 2024.
The petition highlights serious concerns about remarks made by Dr. Abati, which perpetuated harmful stereotypes against the Igbo community. These statements have been further amplified by extremist groups like Lagospidia, exacerbating ethnic tensions in an already delicate sociopolitical climate.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of League of Public Affairs Analysts, Enugu chapter, Ambrose Igboke, one of the key issues raised are: Reinforcement of Harmful Stereotypes. In this, they media group said Dr. Abati’s reference to the Igbo people in a broad, negative context risks inflaming ethnic tensions and promoting dangerous generalizations. This kind of action they recalled was what ignited the Rwandan genocide where the Hutu and Tutsi engaged in a fratricidal war of extermination. It all started with a radio broadcast.
Another issue raised was the am of the matter by divisive groups. They believe that Abiti’s comments were quickly weaponized by groups known for anti-Igbo sentiments, fueling divisive narratives that undermine national unity. More so, Dr. Abati’s hostile response to a colleague, Ms. Ojy Okpe, on the following day’s broadcast, demonstrated a troubling disregard for professional journalistic standards, an unethical On-Air Conduct.
Apparently too, his conduct stressed is a violation of Broadcasting Code: “The remarks and behavior constitute a breach of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, which prohibits content that incites division or promotes hate speech”
“Our urgent requests to NBC are: Investigate the Broadcast, that is, to conduct a thorough review of Dr. Abati’s remarks and the editorial lapses that allowed such conduct to air.
“Hold Arise TV Accountable and mandate a public apology from Arise TV and ensure improved editorial guidelines to prevent future incidents. Sanction Dr. Abati. We require a public apology from Dr. Abati and impose appropriate sanctions for his unprofessional behaviour”.
They urge NBC to promote Inter-Ethnic Harmony by encouraging Arise TV to air programs that foster unity and counteract the divisive narratives. They asked NBC to monitor extremist propaganda, collaborate with relevant authorities to prevent the misuse of broadcast platforms by extremist groups.
“A Call for Responsible Journalism in a nation as diverse as Nigeria, the media plays a critical role in fostering unity. While open dialogue is essential in a democracy, it must be rooted in responsibility and respect. The petition underscores the urgent need for media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and avoid stoking divisions that threaten national cohesion” they maintained.
The Sun Nigeria
