The popular reality TV show Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) is facing renewed criticism, as activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam has petitioned the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), demanding an immediate ban or strict regulationof the ongoing program.

In a formal petition addressed to the NBC’s Director General, titled “Urgent need to ban or regulate the content of the television programme described as 'Big Brother Naija' for obscene, indecent, and profane content, pursuant to the NBC Act 1999,” the lawyer argued that BBNaija airs sexually explicit and indecent content that violates Nigeria’s broadcasting laws and undermines public morality.

“BBNaija Promotes Indecency and Profanity” — Idam

According to Idam, the show frequently features real-time sexually suggestive scenes and vulgar language, which are broadcast freely on national television and widely circulated on social media by the host company.

“The show is not only aired on national TV but its profane content is proudly shared on the verified social media handles of the host company, in total disregard for public morality,” he wrote.

He questioned NBC's silence on the matter, especially in light of the commission’s history of banning or sanctioning music videos by artists such as Olamide, Phyno, and Wizkid for similar reasons.

18+ Rating “Insufficient,” Lawyer Says

While BBNaija is officially rated 18+, Idam insisted this classification is not enough, given the show’s unfiltered accessibility to underage viewers through various digital platforms.

“The 18+ rating is merely symbolic. In practice, the content is easily viewed by children and teenagers who are highly active online,” he said.

He argued that the programme lacks any educational, artistic, scientific, or literary merit, and contributes to the erosion of public values and national morality.

Lawyer Gives NBC 30-Day Ultimatum

Idam urged the NBC to either:

  • Completely ban the programme, or

  • Restrict it to strictly regulated adult channels with no online distribution of explicit scenes.

He warned that Nigeria, already battling insecurity, youth delinquency, and moral crises, cannot afford to ignore the societal impact of BBNaija's influence.

“The NBC must act now to prevent further erosion of our societal values,” he warned, adding that failure to act within 30 days would lead to legal proceedings against the commission.

Growing Debate Over BBNaija’s Content

This latest petition adds to the growing list of public figures and organizations calling for increased regulation of reality television in Nigeria. While the show continues to attract massive viewership and sponsorship, critics argue that it prioritizes entertainment at the expense of ethics and social responsibility.

As of now, the NBC has not issued an official response to the petition.