Controversy Surrounds Niger State’s Revocation of Badegi Radio Station’s Licence

A significant controversy has erupted in Niger State following Governor Umar Bago’s directive to revoke the operational licence of Badegi Radio, a private station in Minna. The governor’s action, which also included ordering the sealing of the station and marking its building for demolition, has been met with immediate and strong reactions from media stakeholders and government officials at the federal level.

According to a statement from the governor’s office, the decision was based on allegations that the radio station had been engaging in “unethical broadcasting” and “incitement of the people against the government.” Governor Bago accused the station of attempting to destabilize his administration and undermining its “New Niger Development Agenda.” While affirming his support for press freedom, he emphasized that such liberty should not be abused.

However, the Federal Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, has since weighed in, stating that the authority to suspend or revoke a broadcasting licence rests solely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). In a statement, the minister acknowledged the concerns raised by the Niger State Government but clarified that the NBC is the legally constituted body with the mandate to handle such matters. He welcomed the state government’s decision to formally report the radio station’s “unethical behavior” to the NBC for resolution.

The governor’s directive has sparked a heated debate about the boundaries of press freedom and the legal authority of state governments over broadcast media. Media rights groups and other stakeholders have criticized the move as a potential clampdown on free speech and an unlawful attempt to silence critical voices. The Federal Ministry’s intervention now places the matter in the hands of the NBC, which is expected to review the case and determine the appropriate course of action. All parties have been urged to remain calm as the issue is resolved in a fair and impartial manner.