Broadcasters demand law mandating Yoruba programming on Lagos stations

The Yoruba Broadcasters Association (YBA) has urged the Lagos State House of Assembly to pass a law mandating all broadcast stations within the state to regularly air Yoruba-language programs. In an appeal made during a press conference, YBA's National President, Adefunso Ademigbuji, argued that the gradual decline of Yoruba programs on newer Lagos-based radio and TV stations poses a significant threat to the language's survival.

Ademigbuji emphasized that the YBA, founded in 2011, is dedicated to promoting and preserving Yoruba language and culture through broadcasting. He stressed that Lagos, a predominantly Yoruba-speaking city, holds immense importance for the language's historical, cultural, and commercial relevance. Ademigbuji lamented that many newer stations are not airing any regular Yoruba programs, warning that the language could gradually disappear if no action is taken.

He proposed a law that would compel broadcast stations to include Yoruba content, set minimum standards, and establish a monitoring system to ensure compliance. Ademigbuji also called for President Bola Tinubu to grant at least one major national interview in Yoruba, emphasizing that the appeal is about inclusion, not ethnic exclusion.

The association pledged to submit a petition to the Lagos State Assembly, seeking the enactment of the proposed law.