Niger State Government Reverses Suspension Order on Badeggi FM After Public Backlash
The Niger State Government has reversed its earlier directive to suspend operations of Badeggi FM 90.1, a private radio station accused of unethical broadcasting and incitement.
This reversal follows strong public backlash and widespread condemnation from media stakeholders and civil society groups.
The decision to allow the station to remain on air was communicated in a statement signed by Binta Mamman, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Niger State.
According to the statement, the station has continued uninterrupted broadcasting despite an earlier order by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to shut it down.
“To demonstrate its commitment to lawful procedure and media independence, the Niger State Government confirms that Badegi FM 90.1 has remained on air uninterrupted, pending a formal investigation by the NBC,” the statement read.
The earlier order was issued during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) Caucus Meeting in Minna, where Governor Bago expressed concern over alleged unethical conduct by the station, which he claimed included inciting content. At the time, a directive was given to suspend the station’s activities until further notice.
However, the new statement from the Information Ministry clarified that the state government recognizes that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the constitutional authority to regulate, suspend, or revoke broadcast licenses in Nigeria.
The Commissioner noted that the Ministry has initiated a formal notification process to the NBC, asking the federal regulator to investigate the allegations against Badeggi FM.
The government emphasized that it prioritizes national peace and unity, but also upholds press freedom and respects the legal framework that governs broadcasting in the country.
Describing the station’s continued operation as a testament to democratic values, the Ministry said the case demonstrates the state’s commitment to respecting press freedom, regulatory independence, and the rule of law.
In an effort to further promote responsible journalism and institutional trust, the state government announced its plans to convene a stakeholder dialogue. This forum will include media executives, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and other relevant actors, aimed at fostering ethical standards and accountability within the media landscape.
The government urged the public and all stakeholders to remain calm and await the outcome of the NBC’s investigation. It also reaffirmed its stance against interference in regulatory matters that fall under the jurisdiction of federal institutions.
