These are not the best of times for the likes of African Independent Television (AIT), Silverbird Television, Raypower FM and Rhythm FM as The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has ordered its immediate shutdown.
NBC Director-General, Mallam Balarabe Shehu gave the order. The DG directed its state offices to liaise with security agencies to ensure that the broadcasting stations are shutdown within the next 24 hours.
A statement by the NBC states that; “Some licensees are yet to pay their outstanding debts, in contravention of the National Broadcasting Commission Act CAP N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, particularly section 10(a) of the third schedule of the Act.”
“Therefore, after due consideration, NBC hereby announces the revocation of the licenses of the…stations and gives them 24 hours to shut down their operations. Our offices nationwide are hereby directed to collaborate with security agencies to ensure immediate compliance.”
“The broadcast regulator said the continued operation of the “debtor stations is illegal and constitutes a threat to national security.”
“The Commission also calls on all IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and all other broadcast stations that are streaming online to register with the Commission to avoid disconnection.”
“Broadcasters should note that having a DTT or FM license does not warrant a broadcaster to stream online; they are two different licences.”
