Niger State Governor Bago Orders Closure of Badeggi FM Over Alleged Incitement

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has mandated the closure of Badeggi FM, a private radio station located in Minna, citing violations of ethical broadcasting standards. The decision was made during an APC stakeholders' meeting at the Government House. Governor Bago accused the station of unprofessional content and alleged that its owner used the platform to incite public hostility against his administration. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor instructed security agencies to shut down the station and initiate license revocation processes. He also called for an investigation into the station's owner, claiming that the broadcasts foster violence. Badeggi FM 90.1, established in 2020 by Shuaibu Badeggi, has been the subject of controversy, with critics arguing that only the National Broadcasting Commission has the authority to regulate and close broadcast outlets. This move follows recent directives by the governor, including a controversial order to arrest individuals with dreadlocks in Niger State.