- Hints of truce in NBC,Daar communications impasse
- Daar communications closure a threat to democracy – Dickson
Admin l Monday, June 10, 2019
YENEGOA, Bayelsa, Nigeria – Chairman emeritus, Daar Communications Plc, Chief Raymond Dokpesi has said that the outfit did not violate any section of the National Broadcasting code contrary to opinion held by the National Broadcasting Commission(NBC).
Dokpesi who was speaking in Yenagoa, Bayelsa said at 68 he has no regrets staging protest in defence of freedom of speech. Dokpesi led staff and others in protest when the NBC suspended its operating licence for allege breach of its code.
Chief Dokpesi insisted that the organisation did not breach the NBC code and was not guilty of any infraction. He however disclosed that key stakeholders in the media industry have met with the NBC and that a truce had been reached.
“The fathers of the industry have waded in and met the NBC. I’m pleased to inform you that a truce was agreed upon that Daar Communications Plc should appoint an ombudsman,” he said.
In his remarks, Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Dickson described the closure of Daar Communications as a serious threat to democracy in Nigeria.
“A few days ago, we were shocked at the sudden closure of Daar Communications by the NBC. When we got the unfortunate news, we, the PDP governors, made our condemnation public.
“We thank the judiciary for its decision. The right of free speech should be the first to be protected. We consider what happened as a serious blow to our efforts to deepen the nation’s democracy and free exchange of views.
“We commend Daar Communications for the great efforts in the interest of our country and democracy. If in the course of carrying out your duties you are accused, the due process should be followed instead of arbitrary abuse.
“Daar Communications has become a national institution. No one will be allowed to limit the rights of free speech, which is essential for the existence of our country. Great care must be exercised when matters of such are on. The task of building a democratic Nigeria is ongoing,” he said.
