The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has given Governor Umar Bago of Niger State 48 hours to reopen Badeggi FM 90.1, an independent radio station in Minna, which the government recently shut down.
In an open letter dated August 2, SERAP described the shutdown as “arbitrary and unlawful” and warned that it violates press freedom and the Nigerian Constitution.
“Your vague, unfounded and unsubstantiated allegations of ‘inciting violence’ against Badeggi FM and its owner are apparently made to silence the radio station and its owner,” said Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s Deputy Director, who signed the letter.
Last week, Governor Bago reportedly ordered the Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Homeland Security to seal the station, revoke its broadcasting licence, and demolish the building. He also allegedly directed security forces to profile the station’s owner, Shuaibu Badeggi.
The governor claimed the station aired unethical programs that incited the public against the government. However, SERAP believes the action is aimed at silencing dissent.
“The crackdown on Badeggi FM is capable of discouraging press participation in public debate, especially as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections,” SERAP warned.
The group said the move violates Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“Media outlets in Niger State must be free to enable debate on issues of public interest without fear of reprisals,” the letter added.
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SERAP also called on the governor to stop any alleged intimidation of the station’s staff and protect their rights to personal liberty and security.
It accused the governor of using government powers and law enforcement agencies to clamp down on opposing voices.
“Your directive to revoke the station’s licence, close it down, and demolish its premises is an attack on Nigerians’ right to receive and share information freely,” the group said.
SERAP gave the governor 48 hours to reverse the decision, reinstate Badeggi FM’s licence, and stop any plans to demolish the station. It warned that failure to act would lead to legal action.
“If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel you and your government to comply with our request in the public interest,” the group stated.
SERAP ended the letter by reminding the governor that press freedom is essential to democracy.
“The Constitution and international laws protect the press so that the public can access information and participate in public debate,” it said.