The closure of Badeggi Radio 90.1 FM in Minna, Niger State, by Governor Mohammed Bago has ignited a firestorm of criticism and condemnation both nationally and internationally. The governor’s rationale for the shutdown, citing public incitement and unethical conduct, has been widely rejected as an abuse of power and a blatant attack on media freedom. The move has sparked concerns about a broader pattern of intimidation and censorship targeting independent journalism in Nigeria.
Amnesty International, a leading human rights organization, vehemently denounced the governor’s action, characterizing it as “lawless and repressive.” They argued that the governor’s claim of incitement lacked substantiation and that his order to revoke the station’s license represented an overreach of his authority. Furthermore, they pointed to the hypocrisy of targeting a radio station while the state grapples with escalating insecurity, marked by killings and displacement by armed groups. Amnesty International insisted that the governor’s focus should be on addressing these critical security issues rather than silencing critical voices.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Niger State also expressed serious concerns about the governor’s actions, emphasizing the proper legal channels for revoking broadcast licenses. They stressed that this power lies solely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and not with the governor. Furthermore, the NUJ underscored the importance of due process and judicial interpretation before any such action can be taken. They advised the governor to lodge a formal complaint with the NBC if he had concerns about the radio station’s conduct instead of resorting to unilateral closure.
Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre echoed the sentiments of other critics, describing the governor’s decision as harsh, punitive, and an affront to the constitutional role of the press. They argued that the governor’s actions set a dangerous precedent of suppressing media voices under the guise of maintaining public order. They joined other organizations in expressing solidarity with Badeggi Radio and condemning the governor’s infringement on media freedom.
Aisha Badeggi, the General Manager of Badeggi Radio, expressed her shock and bewilderment at the sudden closure, stating that there had been no prior warning or communication from the government. She refuted the governor’s accusations, stating that the radio station has always adhered to ethical journalistic practices and promotes good governance. She emphasized their commitment to transparency and their role as a voice for the people. She questioned the governor’s motivations and expressed confidence in their legal team’s ability to address the situation.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, had claimed that Badeggi Radio operated for five years without a license. This claim was immediately refuted by Aisha Badeggi, who questioned how such an operation would be possible given the regulatory oversight of the NBC. She pointed out the absurdity of the governor attempting to revoke a license that the Commissioner claims does not exist. This conflicting information further fueled suspicions about the governor’s true motives and the lack of due process in his actions. The Commissioner for Information did not respond to requests for comment on the matter, further deepening the controversy.
