Court Refuses to Set Aside Ruling Against NBC’s Broadcast Station Fines

In a significant ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) application to overturn a judgment that bars the commission from imposing fines on broadcast stations across Nigeria.

Justice James Omotosho, in delivering the judgment, unequivocally dismissed the NBC’s application, describing it as “an afterthought.”

Justice Omotosho highlighted the commission’s failure to file a defence despite being duly served with the legal documents and notifications pertaining to the case that led to the initial ruling.

Dismissing the NBC’s claim of not receiving the court procedures, the judge emphasized that the court records clearly indicate that the commission was served but chose not to respond or make an appearance.

Furthermore, the judge pointed out the bailiff’s affidavit confirming multiple instances of the court proceedings being served on the commission.

Addressing the NBC’s contention of not being served, Justice Omotosho unequivocally stated, “The respondent applicant cannot claim it was not served. The objection is hereby overruled.”