Editors Condemn Shutdown of Badeggi Radio, Accuse Niger Governor of Undermining Democracy
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the recent closure of Badeggi Radio by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, labelling it an unconstitutional move that undermines press freedom and threatens the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued on Saturday and jointly signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the governor’s action as a blatant overreach of executive powers and a violation of due process.
“This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where a free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” the NGE stated.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Guild reminded public officials that freedom of expression and press freedom are constitutionally guaranteed rights.
The NGE emphasised that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is empowered to sanction broadcast stations — and only after a comprehensive investigation into any alleged violation of the broadcasting code.
“The closure of Badeggi Radio, a vital platform for public discourse and information dissemination, is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy,” the Guild said. “Governor Bago acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station.”
The editors welcomed the intervention of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who acknowledged the illegality of the governor’s action. However, the Guild urged the Federal Government to go a step further by ordering the immediate reopening of the station and initiating a formal investigation.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s military era, the Guild said, “Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago. Such executive overreach erodes the democratic progress we have made since 1999.”
While the governor accused the station of inciting violence, the Guild insisted that any such allegation must be investigated and substantiated before any punitive action is taken.
“The claim of incitement is a serious allegation that requires thorough investigation. No governor has the legal authority to unilaterally shut down a media house,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its call for ethical journalism, the Guild urged media professionals to uphold integrity and adhere to the journalism code of ethics. However, it maintained that no breach justifies circumventing due process.
“The Guild reiterates that a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy and demands that governments at all levels respect and uphold this fundamental right,” the statement concluded.
