The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the shutdown of Badeggi FM by the Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, describing the action as “executive rascality of the highest order” and a direct assault on press freedom.
Naijaonpoint reports that Governor Bago had on Friday ordered the suspension of Badeggi Radio FM, alleging unethical broadcasting and incitement against his administration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe criticised the governor’s directive, insisting that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the constitutional authority to suspend or revoke broadcast licences.
“This constitutes executive rascality of the highest order. It is a blatant abuse of power that undermines constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licences or shut down any media establishment,” Osigwe said.
He emphasised that media regulation must adhere to due process and established statutory mechanisms, rather than arbitrary executive orders.
The NBA declared the governor’s action “entirely unlawful and of no legal effect,” urging the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to disregard any directive that infringes on constitutional rights.
“We call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts,” the statement read.
Osigwe emphasised that shutting down Badeggi FM undermines press freedom and Nigeria’s democratic principles.
“A free and independent media is not a privilege, it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society,” he added.
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