Legacy FM Suspends Acting General Manager Over Criticisms of Ebonyi Governor

The management of Legacy FM 95.1, a privately-owned radio station in Ebonyi State, has suspended its Acting General Manager, Godfrey Chikwere, effective immediately. The suspension follows Chikwere’s persistent criticisms of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration, which the station’s management deemed contrary to its code of conduct.

Chikwere had taken to social media to express his concerns about the governor’s leadership, citing poor communication, underperformance by appointees, and lack of clear policy direction. He advised the governor to be more stringent in decision-making and “step on toes” to achieve results. However, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, responded by accusing Chikwere of ingratitude, highlighting the state government’s support for the radio station, including gifting a new SUV, donating a transformer, and constructing the road leading to the broadcasting house.

The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information, Ikeuwa Omebeh, condemned Chikwere’s remarks, describing them as “derogatory and inciting.” Omebeho accused Chikwere of overstepping his bounds and showing disrespect to the governor and the people of Ebonyi State. The government had previously urged the police to arrest and prosecute Chikwere over his social media activities, which they deemed hate speech.

Chikwere’s suspension is not his first brush with controversy. In a previous incident, he was arrested and detained by the police following a petition by the Commissioner for Information. He was later released, but the experience raised concerns about press freedom and government tolerance for criticism in Ebonyi State.