NBC apologizes over EFCC raid on Enugu radio during live broadcast

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a formal apology to the broadcast industry, the people of Enugu State, and the general public following the raid of Urban Radio 94.5FM Enugu by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement released by the NBC’s Director of Public Affairs, Susan Obi, on Monday in Abuja, the commission expressed dismay over the incident, which occurred on October 14, 2024, during a live broadcast of the radio show PrimeTime.

The EFCC reportedly stormed the station in an attempt to arrest the show’s presenter, Favour Ekoh, while the program was on air, a move that the NBC described as a breach of broadcasting ethics.

“The raid, carried out during a live show, is considered a violation of the professional ethics of broadcasting,” the statement read. “The method of arrest was improper, particularly during a live broadcast, which has the potential to cause public disorder, panic, and mass hysteria.”

While the NBC acknowledged the EFCC’s critical role in fighting financial crimes, it criticized the agency’s handling of the situation. “This action is regrettable, given the significant influence of the broadcast media on society,” Obi added.

The NBC expressed its “heartfelt apologies” to Urban Radio listeners, the people of Enugu, and the entire broadcast industry, assuring the public that such incidents would be avoided in the future.

In closing, the NBC urged the public to remain law-abiding while the matter is addressed through appropriate legal channels, and called on media professionals to continue upholding ethical standards in their duties.