Activist Lawyer Petitions NBC to Ban or Restrict Big Brother Naija Over “Pornographic” Content

Maduabuchi Idam, a Nigerian activist and public interest lawyer, has submitted a formal petition to the Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), demanding the ban or regulation of the reality TV show Big Brother Naija for promoting "pornographic, indecent, and profane" content.

In the petition titled “Urgent need to ban or regulate the content of the television programme described as Big Brother Naija,” Idam gave NBC a 30-day ultimatum to take action or face legal redress.

Idam argues that Big Brother Naija, now in its 10th season, routinely broadcasts content that breaches the NBC Act of 1999, especially regarding public decency and morality. He described the ongoing season as rife with “real-time obscene and pornographic actions”, which are then amplified on social media.

“Despite the 18+ rating, this program remains accessible to underage viewers and the general public through national TV and verified social media accounts,” Idam said.

Referencing past NBC decisions to ban music videos like “Don’t Stop” by Olamide and “In My Bed” by Wizkid, Idam questioned the Commission’s silence over BBNaija’s content.

“Why the selective enforcement? These music videos were banned for far less. Why is Big Brother Naija being given a free pass?” he wrote.

He emphasized that the show lacks any educational, artistic, scientific, or literary value, and its widespread consumption is contributing to “the moral wreckage” of Nigerian society.

Idam is calling for the program to be either completely banned or made accessible only via restricted channels, with social media dissemination of its explicit clips prohibited outright.

“I urge the NBC to enforce proper restrictions within 30 days. Failing which, I shall seek redress in a competent court,” the petition warned.

He closed the letter with a pointed critique of the show’s influence:

“Big Brother Naija has become a symbol of the decay we’re trying to heal as a nation. It’s time for the NBC to act responsibly.”