Mohammed Idris Malagi, Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation
FG Reacts to Niger Governors Closure of Badegi FM
The Federal Government has responded to the recent directive by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State ordering the suspension of Badegi FM, a privately owned radio station in Minna, over alleged unethical broadcasting and incitement.
In a statement issued on Friday, by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the Ministry acknowledged growing concerns within the media and civil society over the development. The statement was in reaction to reports that Governor Bago announced the closure of the station during an expanded Niger State APC Caucus Meeting held on August 1, which was attended by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation.
While the Ministry noted the governors allegations of professional misconduct by the station, it emphasized that matters relating to the suspension or revocation of broadcast licenses fall strictly under the legal jurisdiction of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law, the statement read.
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The Ministry further welcomed the decision of the Niger State Government to channel its grievances to the NBC for appropriate regulatory action.
In light of this, the Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived unethical behavior of Badegi FM to the NBC for resolution, it stated.
Calling for calm, the Minister assured stakeholders that the NBC is equipped with fair and impartial mechanisms to adjudicate such cases in accordance with Nigerias broadcasting code and regulatory framework.
The controversy surrounding Badegi FM has sparked debate about press freedom and due process in Nigerias broadcast industry. Media rights groups and press advocates have expressed concern over the potential for executive overreach in matters that are constitutionally assigned to independent regulatory bodies.
Badegi FM is yet to issue an official statement on the matter as of the time of filing this report. However, local sources say the station has since gone off-air following the governors pronouncement.
The NBC has not publicly commented on the incident, but it is expected to investigate the case and make a determination in line with its mandate.
The Ministry of Information reaffirmed its commitment to upholding lawful processes and ensuring that the freedom of the press is balanced with professional responsibility and accountability.
By PRNigeria
