Covid'19: FG Orders NBC To Shut Down BBNaija

The Federal Government has reportedly ordered the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to take Big Brother Naija (BBN) off the air over fears of a possible spread of COVID-19 among housemates.

According to TheCable, Armstrong Idachaba, acting Director-General of the NBC, told senior management members that he had been directed by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, to shut down the show.

Insiders disclosed that the NBC management was not well disposed to the move, with some members saying there was no strong basis for the decision.

A director reportedly reminded the meeting that NBC had already sought explanations from MultiChoice regarding a possible violation of COVID-19 protocols before the show began. The letter was sent on July 1.

MultiChoice responded with detailed explanations on safety measures taken in collaboration with the Lagos State Government. The Lagos State Safety Commission had given approval for the show to proceed.

According to the response, housemates were screened prior to the show, and the BBN house was decontaminated and restructured to ensure physical distancing. The use of a live audience was also eliminated.

All housemates reportedly underwent a mandatory two-week isolation period during which any COVID-19 symptoms would have manifested if present.

Another director stated that participants had maintained safety protocols, including consistent use of hand sanitizers since the show began.

Idachaba, who is reportedly seeking confirmation as the substantive Director-General, was advised to request a written directive from the Minister. However, he reportedly stated that he would have no option but to carry out the order.

Drop your comments below. Do you think the government should shut down the show?