NBC reopens Ekiti broadcasting service, resumes service Jan 1

Ekiti State Broadcasting Service, which was shut down by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on July 15, will commence operation on January 1, 2019.

This followed the approval of Governor Kayode Fayemi after it was re-opened by the regulatory body.

The broadcast station was shut down by the NBC for various infractions including, unauthorised airing of results of the July 14, 2018 governorship election in the state.

The re-opening is sequel to the submission of report of the panel set up by the state government to look into the remote and immediate causes of the closure as well as Governor Fayemi’s intervention.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Yinka Oyebode, on Monday said following the governor’s engagement with the NBC leadership, the regulatory body agreed to an instalment payment of the fines slammed on the station.

Consequently, the governor approved the January 1, 2019 commencement date, and directed that all arrangements for the re-opening be concluded within the next one week.

While appreciating the NBC management under the leadership of Isha’q Modibbo Kawu for its understanding, Governor Fayemi said government would put necessary structures in place to ensure that the BSES is run professionally.

Meanwhile, Mr Idowu Oguntuase, one of BSES’ most senior officials has been directed to be in charge as Acting General Manager pending the outcome of the White Paper on the Visitation Panel report.