Governor Bago Orders Closure of Badeggi Radio, Sparks Outrage Over Media Suppression

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has come under fire after ordering the shutdown of Badeggi FM, a privately-owned radio station in Minna, over claims of inciting violence and engaging in unethical broadcasting practices.

The decision, announced during an expanded APC caucus meeting at the Government House, Minna, was based on allegations that the radio station's daily broadcasts were stirring up unrest and encouraging anti-government sentiments. The governor directed the Commissioner for Homeland Security and the Commissioner of Police to seal the station and begin profiling its owner.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago accused the station of unethical journalism and promoting violence, insisting that its broadcast licence be revoked immediately.

However, the move has sparked sharp backlash.

Amnesty International Nigeria, through its director Isa Sanusi, condemned the closure, calling it “lawless and repressive.” Sanusi argued that the governor does not have the legal authority to shut down a broadcast station or revoke its license, describing the act as an abuse of power and a threat to independent journalism.

Wadata Media and Advocacy Center (WAMAC) also strongly criticized the action. Its chairman, Zubair A. Idris, labeled the shutdown as a “harsh and punitive attempt to gag the press,” warning that such moves undermine democracy and violate Section 22 of Nigeria’s Constitution, which mandates the media to hold government accountable.

WAMAC and other media rights groups like BON and IBAN joined calls for the immediate reversal of the shutdown and urged the governor to address public concerns through dialogue, not suppression.

Critics argue that rather than silencing critical voices, the government should respond transparently to any allegations made on public platforms, especially those aired on Badeggi FM’s popular programs.

As public debate intensifies, this latest development raises broader questions about media freedom, governance transparency, and the limits of executive power in a democratic society.