BREAKING: Benue Assembly calls for ban on Big Brother Naija over derogatory remarks

The Benue State House of Assembly has passed a resolution, urging the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to eliminate the reality television program, Big Brother Naija, commonly known as BBNaija.

During its plenary session presided over by Speaker Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh, the lawmakers arrived at this decision following a concern raised by Hon. Manger Manger, the representative of Tarka State Constituency. He brought to the attention of the National Assembly Caucus of Benue State origin and the NBC the derogatory comments made by Venita Akpofure regarding the Tiv ethnic group on the TV reality show, Big Brother Naija.

The House additionally determined that Akpofure should issue a formal apology to the Tiv ethnic group through two national newspapers and television stations. Furthermore, she should be reported to the Inspector General of Police and taken to a court of competent jurisdiction to be sued, serving as a deterrent to others.

In his motion, Manger referred to Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which emphasizes the entitlement of every individual or group to respect for the dignity of their person, necessitating protection and respect.

Manger, during the motion, highlighted that Venita Akpofure, from the Urhobo ethnic group in Delta State, made disparaging remarks on the Big Brother Naija TV reality show, suggesting that the Tiv people of Benue State offer their wives to visitors and friends for entertainment.

“I am concerned about this defamation and false assertion, coming from an individual who was purportedly married to a Tiv man and has two children. If not addressed appropriately, this misinformation could mislead uninformed individuals, potentially becoming a point of reference,” expressed Hon. Manger.