Niger NUJ Condemns Closure of Badeggi FM, Calls for Immediate Reversal of Governor's Order
By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku Lafia
The Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to immediately withdraw his directive ordering the shutdown of Badeggi FM 90.1, a private radio station based in Minna, describing the action as undemocratic and a threat to press freedom.
In a statement released after an emergency meeting of the State Working Committee, the NUJ appealed to Governor Bago to exercise restraint and uphold democratic values in the exercise of executive powers, especially as they relate to the media.
The statement, signed by the State NUJ Secretary, Comrade Usman Chiji, emphasized that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the constitutional mandate to issue or revoke broadcasting licenses, and such actions must follow due process, including judicial interpretations when necessary.
“The licensing and regulation of broadcast stations do not fall within the purview of any state government,” the statement read, urging the governor to channel any grievances through NBC rather than issuing unilateral closure orders.
The Union expressed concern that the governor’s directive undermines the vital role of the media in holding public officers accountable and advised that, instead of viewing media activities as antagonistic, the government should engage constructively and partner with media professionals.
The NUJ noted that Governor Bago could have engaged the union as the umbrella body of professional journalists in the state to address any concerns about alleged misconduct, rather than resorting to executive fiat.
Reaffirming its stance against media suppression, the NUJ cautioned that while it does not support unethical journalism, any breach of professional conduct should be addressed through proper channels and ethical frameworks.
The union also disclosed that it recently constituted a committee headed by veteran journalist Pastor Dan Amashingha to revalidate NUJ membership and strengthen professional standards within the state.
“We urge all practitioners to abide by the ethics of the profession and maintain public trust.
However, government actions that threaten the existence of media houses are unacceptable and contrary to the principles of democracy,” the NUJ stated.
The Union urged the state government to rescind the closure order in the interest of press freedom, responsible governance, and the continued growth of democracy in Niger State and Nigeria at large.
