Niger State Governor Faces Calls to Reverse Revocation of Radio Station's Broadcasting Licence

Strategic Insights -

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a call to the Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, demanding the immediate reversal of the revocation of Badeggi FM's broadcasting licence. The governor had revoked the licence and allegedly directed security agents to profile the station's owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, accusing the station of inciting violence and promoting unethical practices. SERAP described the allegations as vague, unfounded, and unsubstantiated, warning that they appear aimed at silencing a critical media voice. The organisation emphasized that any restriction on media freedom must be lawful, necessary, and serve a legitimate public interest.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, has been called upon by SERAP to reverse the revocation of Badeggi FM's broadcasting licence.
  • SERAP described the allegations against the station as vague, unfounded, and unsubstantiated, warning that they appear aimed at silencing a critical media voice.
  • Any restriction on media freedom must be lawful, necessary, and serve a legitimate public interest, as emphasized by SERAP.
  • The governor allegedly directed security agents to profile the station's owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, accusing the station of inciting violence and promoting unethical practices.
  • SERAP warned that it will initiate legal action if the measures are not reversed within 48 hours of receiving the letter.
  • The organisation stressed that freedom of expression and the right to a free press are cornerstones of democracy and must not be eroded by arbitrary government actions.
  • The crackdown on Badeggi FM could have a chilling effect across other media houses in Nigeria, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
  • SERAP called on Governor Bago to respect the constitutional and international protections of journalists and media houses, adding that these protections exist not just for individual journalists but to uphold the public's right to access information.

Statistics:

  • 48 hours: The timeframe given to Governor Bago to reverse the revocation of Badeggi FM's broadcasting licence.
  • 1: The number of day on which Governor Bago ordered the sealing of Badeggi FM.
  • 2: The date on which SERAP's open letter to Governor Bago was signed by Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP's deputy director.

Sources:

  • The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) open letter to Governor Umar Bago of Niger State, dated August 2, 2025.
  • SERAP statement calling for Governor Bago to respect the constitutional and international protections of journalists and media houses.