NBC Censorship: What Parameters?

Eunice Nze

From time immemorial, society has found value in artistic expressions. This is notwithstanding the fact that such expressions often do not shy away from challenging strongly held societal beliefs, be they political, moral, religious, or otherwise. And the truly great works survive penetrating scrutiny from critics – including art scholars, government, consumers and the general public – to become movements that even outlive the artist.
Music is a powerful work of art. The saying that music is the food of the soul was not just coined for the fun of it; but for the impact it has on the performer and his audience. Music knows no country, race or creed but gives to each according to the need. Indeed, it sometimes takes the place of prayer, when words have failed man.
Music is an essential part of Nigerian society. Nigerians are justifiably addicted to it. They make good music and have, over the years, influenced different musical genres and styles in other parts of the world.
With all these attributes, it would be unfair for someone to take advantage of music and abuse the privileges. It would also be unfair for one to invest so much into music and not be allowed to reap the dividends.
Recently, the story of one Saint Janet appeared in the national dailies. Many say that while she is a talented singer, her songs are filled with obscenities. They allege that her lyrics are lewd and describe sex graphically. Word on the streets has it that people have been advocating that her music be banned by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) with some even pursuing their complaints to the House of Assembly.
Freedom of expression is a globally recognized right and is guaranteed as a fundamental human right in the Nigerian constitution, but this right is not absolute. As a popular saying points out: Your rights end where mine begin. So, any singular right must be balanced against a variety of other rights and interests, including child protection and public order. Some people believe sexually explicit and violent materials contribute to societal degradation in physical, cultural and emotional terms. Musicians must understand and respect these concerns.
In 1998, the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) banned Bang, Bang, Bang by Femi Kuti, and Big Bottom by Charlie Boy. Recent songs also under the hammer for either lyrical or visual indecency include: Enter the place (TuFace Idibia), Shayo (Bigiano), Dance for me (Duncan Mighty), Suddenly (D’banj), Close to you (D’banj), Nwa Baby (Flavours), Rigirigi (Flavours), Maga Don Pay (Kelly Handsome) and Baby Konga (Konga).  The Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) are well within their statutory powers to carry out these actions as it is their primary duty.
For the NBC, this brings to mind the question: what criteria are used in determining what should be banned or otherwise? Why are songs such as “Enter the place” and “Shayo” banned while others perceived to be more offensive remain in circulation?
While art should not be intended to cause offense, censorship should not destroy artistic value, market value, and more importantly, freedom of expression. Given the diverse, unpredictable tastes of society, the effects of censorships and its susceptibility to subjectivity and abuse, decisions of these nature should be approached with due caution.
It may be needful that the NBC go back to the drawing board to formulate clear cut parameters for determining what is in and what stays out. This will serve as a blueprint for artistes before they begin recording their works. After considering the efforts, energies and monies invested into these ventures, one is sometimes tempted to say that the NBC is being insensitive.
Everyone is looking for means to earn an honest livelihood.  As long as these controversial lyrics cater to a decent segment of society, such works should be rated and made available for its consumers. Really, best practices advocate control as opposed to outright bans. Indiscriminate bans frustrate creativity and brand marketability.