BON Lauds Broadcast Stations For Deepening Democratic Values, Cautions On Live Transmission
… Seeks Protection For Media Practitioners
The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) has applauded radio and television stations across the country for adequately mobilising Nigerians for the forthcoming
elections through pre-election reportage, public enlightenment programmes and
Jungles that adequately prepare the entire populace for the elections.
BON Executive Secretary, Dr. Yemisi Bambgose stated this on Wednesday, saying broadcast media outfits across the country have through their respective platforms provided a level playing field for all political parties and heightened political awareness.
Dr. Bamgbose said, “Broadcast Media outfits have provided a level playing field for all political parties to air their manifestos free of charge to the electorates thereby deepening democratic governance and values.
“We have also observed that radio and television stations including government NBC Owned stations have continued to include in their news bulletin, stories emanating from the various political parties without necessarily paying for it.”
Besides, the BON Executive Secretary averred that the stations also deserve commendations for diffusing the impact of fake news being disseminated through social media.
“Although NBC has raised a red flag in one instance on what it considered as transmitting “unfair content” during the live transmission of political party rallies.
He observed that the huge cost of the live editing technology called
“Profanity Delay” has made it impossible for the regulator and television stations to acquire the device, saying it has made it impossible for members to control speeches by political parties during the live telecast.
However, he warned that BON as a responsible organisation will not tolerate deliberate violation of broadcasting codes or any other extant laws.
Dr. Bamgbose assured that BON will continue to advocate for due process from the regulatory body before the imposition of sanctions and admonishes member stations to adhere strictly to the electoral guidelines now that elections are close by.
Besides, BON appealed to security agencies to ensure adequate security for organisations and media practitioners most especially in volatile areas across the country during and after the elections.
