NBA Condemns Shutting Down Of Radio Station In Niger, Demands Immediate Reversal

The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the shutdown of Badeggi FM, describing the action as an “executive rascality of the highest order” and demanding an immediate reversal of the directive.

On Friday, Governor Umar Bago of Niger State ordered the suspension of Badeggi Radio FM’s activities, citing instances of unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government as justification for the suspension.

However, in a statement on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe, described the governor’s action as an assault on press freedom and democratic governance.

Osigwe said that In Nigeria, only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, including the suspension or revocation of licences, subject to due process.”

The NBA further stated that Governor Bago’s directive is entirely unlawful and of no legal effect.

Osigwe stressed that the Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities must refuse to implement illegal orders that infringe on constitutional rights, reiterating that media regulation must follow due process through established statutory mechanisms, not arbitrary executive action.

The association also noted that the actions taken against Badeggi FM constitute a direct affront to press freedom and violate Nigeria’s democratic norms.