The Federal government has warned that henceforth, it will prosecute those involved in the propagation of hate speeches, declaring it as an act of terrorism. Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said offenders of dangerous comments would be treated in accordance with the 2011 terrorism Act.
Speaking yesterday at the second National Conference of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kano, the Minister reiterated that government directive to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction any broadcast station who allows its air-wave to be used as medium for promotion of hate speeches, is still in place.
According to the Minister, the Federal Government has continued to promote ethical standard and the core responsibility of the Journalism profession, but an attempt to circumvent its rightful position in the society could be inimical to the national cohesion. He said the media as moulder of public view has huge responsibility of preserving national unity, public values and peaceful co-existence.
“As gatekeeper, the media is expected in high hope to build responsible and lead vibrant societal development devoid of dangerous and hate speeches. The Federal Government will continue to promote and uphold ethical standard”, the Minister said.
