NBMOA Disowns Impostors, Reaffirms Legal Battle Against AREWA24 Over Brand Use and Licensing

The Northern Broadcast Media Owners Association (NBMOA) Board of Trustees has publicly disclaimed two individuals it says are falsely presenting themselves as representatives of the association, while reiterating its commitment to a legal challenge against AREWA24 TV Channel over licensing and brand use. This development underscores a deepening rift in Nigeria’s northern media landscape, raising critical questions about regulatory oversight, cultural preservation, and the integrity of industry representation.

Background: The Dispute Over Representation

In a press statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the NBMOA Board of Trustees (BOT) said it was compelled to respond to a recent statement by AREWA24 and to clarify the misrepresentation created by two individuals — Amb. Yusuf Mamman, Chairman of JKD TV and Hamada Radio FM, and Alhaji Abdullahi Yelwa, Chairman of the Arewa Broadcast Media Owners and Practitioners Forum (ABMPF). The association stated unequivocally that neither man is a member, trustee, official, or authorized spokesperson of NBMOA.

“Their publicly circulated personal statements regarding NBMOA do not represent the views, positions, or interests of this association,” the statement read. It added that ABMPF is a separate organization entirely and has no mandate to speak on NBMOA’s behalf. This clarification is crucial for stakeholders, including advertisers, regulators, and the public, who rely on accurate representation when engaging with media bodies.

Why This Matters: The Danger of Misrepresentation

Misrepresentation in the media industry can lead to confusion among advertisers, regulatory bodies, and the public. For example, if a company mistakenly believes it is dealing with NBMOA through these individuals, it could enter into agreements that lack legitimacy, potentially resulting in financial losses or legal complications. The NBMOA’s disavowal serves as a protective measure for all parties involved, ensuring that only authorized voices speak on behalf of the association.

NBMOA said the misrepresentation has been “weaponised” by those seeking to undermine its legitimate standing and urged the public and regulatory institutions to disregard the statements. This language suggests a coordinated effort to delegitimize the association, possibly to influence the ongoing legal battle or to create a parallel narrative in the media space.

The Core Issue: Legal Battle Over ‘AREWA’ and ‘HAUSA’ Branding

The association reaffirmed its long-standing position against what it describes as the “bastardizing and cloning” of the “AREWA” and “HAUSA” names as brands by foreign interests with local collaborators. This is not merely a trademark dispute; it touches on deeper issues of cultural sovereignty and economic control. The term “AREWA” is deeply rooted in the identity of Northern Nigeria, representing a shared heritage of the Hausa-Fulani and other ethnic groups. Similarly, “HAUSA” is a language and cultural marker that transcends borders, making its commercial use a sensitive matter.

It said the issue of AREWA24’s operations in Nigeria’s broadcast and advertising space — particularly concerning licensing, local content compliance, and the protection of indigenous Hausa and Muslim cultural and religious values — is already a matter before the courts. The NBMOA’s legal challenge is not just about brand protection; it is about ensuring that foreign entities operating in Nigeria adhere to local laws and respect cultural sensitivities.

Practical Example: The Impact of Brand Misuse

Consider a scenario where a foreign broadcaster uses the name “AREWA” to market content that contradicts local values—such as programming that is insensitive to Islamic traditions or Hausa customs. This could erode trust in indigenous media and undermine the cultural fabric of the region. The NBMOA’s legal action aims to prevent such outcomes by holding AREWA24 accountable to Nigerian standards.

“We have consistently and in good faith engaged all legitimate channels available to us, including petitions to the President, the Minister of Information, the National Security Adviser, NBC, ARCON, EFCC, FIRS, and finally recourse to the courts,” NBMOA stated. This multi-agency approach highlights the seriousness of the issue and the association’s commitment to due process.

Ongoing Litigation and Regulatory Fairness

While declining to comment in detail on AREWA24’s recent press statement due to the ongoing litigation, NBMOA said the broadcaster’s conduct reflects a pattern it has documented and will continue to pursue through the judiciary. “We have full confidence in the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary to examine the facts without the aid of press statements,” it said. This statement is a subtle rebuke to AREWA24’s use of media campaigns to sway public opinion, suggesting that the legal process should be the primary arena for resolution.

Call for Regulatory Fairness

NBMOA emphasized that its legal action is in defense of licensed indigenous broadcast operators in Northern Nigeria who pay taxes, employ Nigerians, and contribute to the region’s cultural and social fabric. It called on the Federal Government, NBC, and ARCON to ensure a level playing field for both foreign and domestic operators in strict accordance with Nigerian law. This plea for fairness is particularly relevant in an era where foreign media giants often have more resources to navigate regulatory hurdles, potentially disadvantaging local players.

The association also placed security agencies on notice, warning that any threats or intimidation against its Chairman, Dr. Ahmed Tijjani Ramalan, or other officials would be reported to the authorities. This precautionary measure reflects the high stakes involved, as media disputes in Nigeria have occasionally escalated into personal attacks or legal harassment.

“We are a registered, lawful, and principled association, and we shall continue to pursue our mandate through every legitimate channel available to us,” the statement said. This reaffirmation of legitimacy is critical for maintaining the association’s credibility in the eyes of regulators and the public.

Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Media Landscape

This dispute is emblematic of larger tensions in Nigeria’s media industry: the clash between globalization and local identity, the struggle for regulatory enforcement, and the need for transparent representation. As foreign broadcasters like AREWA24 expand into Northern Nigeria, they must navigate a complex web of cultural, legal, and economic expectations. The NBMOA’s actions serve as a reminder that indigenous operators will not cede ground without a fight.

For readers, this story offers a window into the behind-the-scenes battles that shape the media they consume. Whether you are a media professional, a regulator, or a concerned citizen, understanding these dynamics is essential for advocating for a fair and culturally respectful broadcast environment.

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