Outrage as Niger State Governor Orders Closure of Badeggi FM Radio Station
Minna, Niger State – August 2, 2025
The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has sparked widespread condemnation after ordering the immediate shutdown of Badeggi 90.1 FM Radio, a privately owned station in Minna, citing allegations that it was “inciting violence” and operating unethically.
Shutdown Order & License Revocation
During the Niger State APC caucus meeting, Governor Bago instructed the Commissioners for Police and Homeland Security to seal the radio station and profile its owner. He also directed that the station’s broadcasting license be revoked, claiming its programming had incited public unrest
Station’s Defense: Calls for Due Process
Abubakar Shuaib, Director of Operations at Badeggi FM, urged the governor to follow legal procedures, specifically appealing to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) rather than using executive power. He stressed that the station aims to hold leaders accountable—not undermine security or peace
Amnesty International & Media Bodies Condemn Move
Amnesty International denounced the governor’s action as a blatant abuse of power and an infringement on press freedom, noting that under Nigerian law only the NBC has authority to revoke a broadcasting license. They called for the immediate withdrawal of the directive and the reopening of the station during any investigation.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors echoed these sentiments, describing the shutdown as a direct attack on democracy and constitutional guarantees under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. They urged officials to uphold citizens’ rights to information access and expression.
Government Statement: Minister Backs NBC’s Jurisdiction
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the allegations but emphasized that licensing actions are exclusively under the authority of the NBC. He endorsed the state government’s right to report suspected infractions to the regulatory body and urged calm while the matter is addressed through proper channels.
