Niger Govt, Badeggi FM Move to Settle Shutdown Dispute Out of Court

The Niger State Government has initiated moves to settle its legal dispute with Badeggi FM Radio through an out-of-court agreement, following weeks of controversy over the station’s closure.

Governor Mohammed Bago had ordered the shutdown of the private station, accusing it of public incitement. He further directed the state’s Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Homeland Security to profile the station’s owner.

The action sparked criticism from media groups, civil society organisations, and rights advocates, who described the move as an attack on press freedom. In response, Badeggi FM filed a suit at the Niger State High Court in Minna, seeking to enforce its fundamental rights.

The case, filed on August 5, 2025, was brought by the station’s counsel, Philip Emmanuel.

At the resumed hearing, counsel to the state government, Jacob Usman (SAN), informed the court that both parties had agreed to explore an amicable resolution.

According to Usman, discussions had been held with the plaintiffs’ counsel to resolve the matter “in the interest of peace and the generality of the people of Niger State.”

“I have spoken with my clients, the Governor of Niger State and the Attorney General, about resolving the matter outside the courtroom, and they agreed. The plaintiffs’ counsel also agreed to work towards a settlement that would serve the best interests of his clients,” Usman told journalists after the session.

Justice of the High Court subsequently fixed September 3, 2025, for the parties to report back on the progress of the settlement talks.

While the terms of the negotiation have not been made public, observers say the resolution of the dispute could set an important precedent for balancing state security concerns with media freedom in Niger State.

PUNCH