The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the shutdown of Badeggi FM 90.1, a radio station in Minna, Niger State, labeling the action as “executive rascality of the highest order” and calling for its immediate reversal. The statement, issued by NBA President Afam Osigwe on Saturday, follows Governor Umar Bago’s directive on Friday to suspend the station’s operations, citing allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement against his government.
In a strongly worded release, Osigwe described the governor’s move as a blatant assault on press freedom and democratic governance, asserting that it constitutes an abuse of power and undermines the rule of law. “The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licenses or shut down any media establishment,” Osigwe stated. He emphasized that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) holds the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, including the suspension or revocation of licenses, and that such actions must adhere to due process.
The NBA declared the governor’s directive unlawful and of no legal effect, urging the Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities to refrain from enforcing what it deems an illegal order that infringes on constitutional rights. The association highlighted that the shutdown of Badeggi FM represents a direct affront to press freedom and violates Nigeria’s democratic principles.
“We call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts. The NBA also urges all levels of government to uphold the rule of law, respect constitutional boundaries, and protect the freedom of the press. A free and independent media is not a privilege—it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society,” the statement read.
The controversy erupted after Governor Bago ordered the station’s closure during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting, a move that has drawn widespread criticism from media stakeholders, civil society, and now the NBA. As the situation escalates, the public awaits the governor’s response, while pressure mounts for the NBC to intervene and restore legal order.
