By Damilare Adeleye
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has condemned the recent invasion of Urban Radio 94.5 FM in Enugu State by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) during a live Radio show, titled, PRIME TIME.
It was reported that the EFCC operatives stormed the station around 6pm on Monday, October 14, and halted ongoing live broadcast at the station.
A broadcaster, identified as Favour Ekoh, was said to have been forcefully removed from the live programme on Urban Radio, causing significant disruption.
In a statement made available to newsmen on Monday, October 21 by Susan Obi, its Director, Public Affairs, NBC described the incursion as violation of the professional ethics of broadcasting especially on a live Broadcast.
NBC subsequently apologised to the listening publics, the people of Enugu State, and the entire Broadcast Industry for the incident.
“The approach for which the arrest was carried out is improper. This action is regrettable, considering the impact of the broadcast media on the Society. While the NBC appreciates the efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, in sanitising the country of financial crimes, NBC differs with the manner of approach deployed by the anti-graft agency which could have led to public disorder, disturbance, aggravate mass panic and hysteria.
“The NBC, hereby, expresses heartfelt apologies to the listening publics, the people of Enugu State, and the entire Broadcast Industry for the incident. The NBC implores the general public, at this point, to be law abiding, while the law takes its course. Media professionals are, also, enjoined to continue upholding ethical standards, while discharging their responsibility,” the statement read partly.