The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has invited Ahmed Isah the chief executive officer of Human Rights Radio for assault.
A spokesman for the NBC Ekanem Antia made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
Mr Isah, known as Ordinary President, was captured in a BBC Africa Eye documentary slapping a woman during an interview on his popular show Brekete Family. The woman allegedly set her niece’s hair on fire after accusing her of being a witch.
“The NBC, as a regulatory body for broadcast media, is concerned over the recent happening at the Human Rights Radio and deemed it fit to invite Isah,” Mr Antia said.
He further explained that the invitation would enable the commission to know the circumstances surrounding the situation that led to the assault.
“As a regulatory body for the broadcast media, the NBC cannot overlook this. Broadcasting should guarantee fairness for all citizens and a broadcaster should grant a right of reply to every citizen before passing judgment.
“That is why the commission decided to send a letter of invitation to the CEO of Human Rights Radio and the anchor of the popular ‘Brekete Family’ radio programme, Ahmed Isah, to come to NBC and explain the circumstances surrounding his actions,” Antia said.
The NBC spokesman also urged broadcasters to recognise the power they have and exercise such with great responsibility and sensitivity.
He also appealed to broadcasters to focus on programmes that address issues concerning peace and patriotism and proffer solutions.
Isah has apologised for his actions, saying he was consumed by his passion. He also said the show would stop airing from June.
