The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the Niger State Government over threats to shut down Badeggi FM 90.1 and demolish the station’s premises, describing the move as an attack on press freedom.
Badeggi FM, a privately owned radio station based in Minna, has reportedly come under pressure from the administration of Governor Umaru Bago, with mounting concerns over attempts to clamp down on its operations.
In a statement signed by the NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, the union described the development as “a blatant act of intimidation and an assault on press freedom.”
“The threats issued against Badeggi FM 90.1 by the Niger State Government are deeply troubling and represent a dangerous overreach of executive power,” Abdullahi said. “Such actions undermine democracy and send a chilling message to independent media organisations.”
The NUJ emphasized that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal authority to regulate, license, or sanction broadcast stations in the country.
“No state government has the constitutional right to interfere with the operations or facilities of any media house,” Abdullahi said. “It is the responsibility of the NBC to investigate any allegations of wrongdoing by broadcast stations and to take appropriate actions through due process.”
He reminded the Niger State Government that freedom of the press is a constitutional guarantee and a cornerstone of democracy.
“Independent journalism must never be stifled through threats, intimidation, or politically motivated directives,” he said.
The NUJ called on Governor Bago to withdraw the threat and allow proper legal processes to address any concerns.
“We are calling on Governor Bago to withdraw the threat of closure and demolition immediately and allow the proper legal channels to address any issues,” Abdullahi added.
The union also urged civil society organisations, professional groups, and the general public to resist any attempt to silence the press.
“We will not stand by and watch as journalists and media institutions are harassed for doing their job,” Abdullahi concluded.
