A former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over its recent code of conduct advisory to media practitioners.

Mr Obi on Tuesday in a Facebook post described the NBC directive as dangerous, troubling and a pattern aimed at intimidating the press despite its important role in democracy.

The former Anambra State governor noted that attempts to gag expressions, moderate opinions or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation would only weaken the country’s fragile democracy.

Warning Mr Tinubu’s administration against suppressing the press, Mr Obi noted that media exists to serve the people and not the government.

“A free and responsible media should not be an enemy to any administration, especially one that claims to have fought for democracy. The media is the conscience of the nation,” Mr Obi said.

He stated that attempts to control media narratives were misguided amid worsening insecurity, failing economy and loss of trust among young Nigerians.

“Our focus should not be on controlling media narratives, but on delivering results. Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions,” the politician said.

“I stand in solidarity with Nigeria’s media houses and broadcasters who are standing against this attempt to silence independent voices and restrict free expression,” he added.

Mr Obi called on government authorities to embrace and respect the independence of all arms and agency to keep democracy safe and thriving.

He stated, “We must return to the path of transparency, accountability, and true independence of all arms and agencies of government. We cannot continue to endanger our democracy.”