The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has issued a warning to filmmakers to desist from promoting and producing films that promote same-sex relationships and pornography that contravenes the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act and the NFVCB Act.
The 2013 Same-Sex Prohibition bill was signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan despite opposition from the international community, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom.
Mr Jonathan signed the bill into law on 17 January 2014.
The existing act prescribes 14 years of imprisonment for same-sex marriage and ten years imprisonment for aiding and abetting the act.
The Board says the warning follows reported cases of covert activities by some filmmakers and content creators, who have been flouting the law with impunity.
The censors board said these filmmakers and content creators produce, promote, distribute and stream prohibited and unapproved content, especially same-sex content, on social media and other online platforms.
The NFVCB, in a statement on Thursday, said: ‘‘It regrets that despite its recent sustained engagements with filmmakers and the leadership of guilds and associations in the motion picture industry for a safer and healthier screen, filmmakers still produce obscene and unlawful content’’.
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
PREMIUM TIMES delivers fact-based journalism for Nigerians, by Nigerians — and our community of supporters, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth, meticulously researched news and information.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Will you support our newsroom with a modest donation to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
Warning
The Board also said it works with relevant security agencies to track the filmmakers and production companies involved. It will also stop at nothing to ensure that those already identified face the full wrath of the law.
The National Films and Videos Censors Board(NFVCB) also warned that releasing music videos, skits and films without their classification is an offence.
The NFVCB’s classification system, which assigns age ratings and content advisories to audiovisual content, is a crucial tool for families to make informed viewing choices and protect children from unsuitable material. Filmmakers and content creators need to adhere to this system.
The NFVCB Director General, Shaibu Husseini, earlier announced the extension of the board’s classification requirements to include music videos and skits.
READ ALSO: Man arrested over alleged molestation, gay sex with ‘several boys’
“It is also an offence to distribute or exhibit any film or video content, musical videos and skits on any platform without recourse to the National Film and Video Censors Board for classification.
The Board reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law, stating, “We are collaborating with relevant security agencies to track any individuals and production companies involved to ensure they face the full consequences of the law.”
Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999