Only NBC Has Power to Suspend Broadcast Licences , Minister Reacts to Badeggi FM Shutdown in Niger

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, has clarified that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal mandate to suspend or revoke broadcast licences in Nigeria.

This statement comes in response to the recent closure of Badeggi FM, a private radio station in Niger State, on the orders of Governor Umar Bago.

On Friday, the governor directed the Commissioner of Police to seal the premises of the station, citing what he described as “unethical practices” and incitement against the government.

According to a statement released by Bologi Ibrahim, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Badeggi FM was allegedly engaging in activities that incited public unrest and violated broadcast ethics.

The governor was also quoted as ordering the revocation of the station’s licence.

However, in a statement issued on Saturday by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Information, Muhammad Idris stressed that such actions fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the NBC.

“While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law,” the statement read.

Idris noted that while state governments have the right to express concerns about media conduct, the appropriate channel for addressing such issues is through the regulatory body. He welcomed the decision of the Niger State Government to officially report Badeggi FM to the NBC for investigation and necessary action.

The development has sparked debate within media and civil society circles over the limits of executive power at the state level concerning media operations, with many warning against setting a precedent that could undermine press freedom.