The attempted clampdown on Badeggi FM 90.1 by the Niger State Government raises serious constitutional and democratic concerns, particularly in light of the clear provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Development Diaries reports that Governor Mohammed Bago reportedly directed the shutdown of the station in response to the station’s broadcast of content perceived to be critical of the state government.
Section 39(1) of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.
This right extends to the operation of media organisations, which serve as crucial platforms for information dissemination, accountability, and public participation in governance.
Any action by a state government to shut down or demolish a media outfit, without lawful justification or recourse to the appropriate regulatory body, constitutes a violation of this constitutional guarantee.
It is also important to emphasise that broadcast regulation in Nigeria is solely under the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), established by the NBC Act Cap N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
The NBC is the only legal authority mandated to license, monitor, sanction, or shut down broadcasting stations in the country.
State governments have no constitutional or statutory power to interfere with broadcast operations or facilities, no matter the nature of the grievances.
Any complaint against a broadcast station must be formally directed to the NBC, which will then investigate and take action based on due process.
Governor Umaru Bago’s reported threats to demolish Badeggi FM’s premises are unconstitutional and also set a dangerous precedent for executive overreach.
Such high-handedness undermines democratic governance, fuels fear among media professionals, and discourages the free flow of information that is vital for citizen engagement and government transparency.
Instead of resorting to intimidation, the state government should explore lawful and civil avenues to address any concerns it may have with the radio station’s content or conduct. Anything less is a direct assault on press freedom and the rule of law.
Development Diaries strongly calls on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw any threats of closure or demolition against Badeggi FM and respect the constitutional provisions that guarantee media freedom in Nigeria.
All concerns should be channelled appropriately to the NBC, which has the capacity and legal mandate to investigate and address such matters.
We also urge the citizens to remain vigilant and resist any attempt to suppress independent journalism. The survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on a free, fair, and fearless press.
Photo source: Niger State
