Posted by The Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has been urged to prohibit the reality TV show Big Brother Naija by a resolution voted by the Benue State House of Assembly.
The Speaker, Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh, presided over the plenary session where the decision was made.
After Hon. Manger Manger, MP for Tarka State Constituency, voiced his displeasure with comments made by housemate Venita Akpofure concerning the Tiv people, the idea gathered traction.
The House has not only called for the show’s cancellation, but has also mandated that Akpofure apologize to the Tiv ethnic minority via two national dailies and television stations.
They also suggested filing a police report against her and taking legal action in a proper court to avoid similar incidents in the future.
In his motion, Manger referred to Section 34 of Nigeria’s constitution (1999) for support of the idea that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity.
Manager was worried about the impact of Venita’s (an Urhobo from Delta State) comments.
She said the Tiv of Benue State regularly provide their ladies as entertainment for guests.
Given her prior marriage to a Tiv man and their two children together, Manger stressed the urgency of resolving the matter as soon as possible to avoid further miscommunication.
The House wants to reduce the harm that could come from such utterances by promoting clarity and precision.