The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged stakeholders to remain calm following the Niger State Government’s suspension of Badeggi FM 90.1, a radio station in Minna, amid allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement. The appeal was contained in a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, on Saturday in Abuja.
The controversy stems from a directive issued by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting on Friday. Governor Bago accused Badeggi FM of engaging in unethical practices and inciting violence against his administration, ordering the immediate closure of the station and calling for the revocation of its broadcasting license.
The minister acknowledged the concerns raised by media stakeholders regarding the suspension, which has sparked widespread criticism from organizations such as Amnesty International Nigeria and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, who labeled the move as an attack on press freedom. However, Idris clarified that the authority to suspend or revoke broadcasting licenses lies solely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by Nigerian law.
Idris welcomed the Niger State Government’s decision to formally report Badeggi FM’s alleged “unethical behavior” to the NBC for investigation. “The NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner,” the statement read, emphasizing the importance of due process in addressing such matters.
The minister called on all parties involved, including media practitioners, civil society groups, and the public, to exercise restraint while the NBC investigates the allegations. He assured stakeholders that the commission would handle the matter transparently to ensure justice and uphold the principles of free expression within the bounds of the law.
The suspension of Badeggi FM has heightened tensions in Niger State, with critics arguing that the move threatens press freedom and sets a dangerous precedent for media operations. The NBC is expected to commence its investigation promptly, as the nation watches closely for a resolution to the controversy.
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