By Wale Odunsi The Federal High Court in Lagos has stopped the Federal Government from revoking the licenses of 53 broadcast station...
By Wale Odunsi
The Federal High Court in Lagos has stopped the Federal
Government from revoking the licenses of 53 broadcast stations, and shutting
them over license renewal.
On Monday, Justice Akintayo Aluko granted an order of
interim injunction after hearing an argument on motion exparte by
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild
of Editors (NGE).
SERAP and NGE filed a lawsuit last week against President
Muhammadu Buhari and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The suit sought a declaration that section 10(a) of the
Third Schedule to the NBC Act used by NBC to threaten the stations is
unconstitutional and unlawful, as it violates freedom of expression.”
In suit FHC/L/CS/1582/2022, SERAP and NGE are seeking a
declaration that the section violates the constitutionally guaranteed right to
fair hearing.
The litigants maintain that the media plays an essential
role as a vehicle or instrument for the exercise of freedom of expression and
information in any country.
They stressed that the media has the task of distributing
all varieties of information and opinion on matters of general interest.
“The public has a right to receive and assess this
information and opinion independently”, the suit reads.
“The existence of a free, independent, vigorous,
pluralistic, and diverse media is essential for the proper functioning of a
democratic society.”
SERAP cited provisions of the Declaration of Principles on
Freedom of Expression in Africa adopted by the African Commission on Human and
Peoples’ Rights.
It says licensing processes shall promote diversity in
broadcasting and that the registration process shall not impose restrictions on
the right to freedom of expression.’”
The suit is adjourned to 8th September, 2022 for the hearing
of the Motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction.
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