By Our Correspondent
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has ordered the immediate closure of Badeggi FM, a privately-owned radio station based in Minna, accusing it of inciting the public against the government and promoting unrest.
The dramatic directive came during an expanded caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at the Government House on Friday night. The meeting was attended by key party stakeholders, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris Malagi, who witnessed the pronouncement.
Governor Bago, visibly displeased, alleged that the station had engaged in unethical broadcasting practices and had consistently aired content that incited public sentiment against the government. He, however, did not provide specific examples of the station’s alleged misconduct.
“The activities of Badeggi FM have become dangerous to public peace. We will not tolerate media houses fanning the flames of violence in our state,” the governor declared.
The governor instructed the Commissioner for Homeland Security and the Niger State Commissioner of Police to immediately seal the station and ensure its operations are halted. He further called on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to revoke the station’s license and profile its owner for allegedly promoting instability through broadcast content.
The move has sparked early reactions, with critics questioning the transparency of the decision, while others view it as a strong stance against irresponsible journalism.
As of press time, Badeggi FM has not issued a public response.