‘A threat to democracy’ — editors slam Umar Bago for shutting down radio station in Niger state

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has criticised Umar Bago, governor of Niger state, over the closure of Badeggi FM radio station, describing the move as an attack on press freedom and democracy.

On Friday, Bago ordered the commissioner of police to seal off the Badeggi FM radio station over alleged incitement of violence.

Bologi Ibrahim, the chief press secretary (CPS) to the governor, said the “daily activities of the radio station have been unethical”.

In a statement signed on Saturday by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, president and general secretary of the NGE, respectively, the guild criticised Bago’s directive, noting that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the authority to sanction broadcast stations.

“The closure of Badeggi radio, a vital platform for public discourse and information dissemination, is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy,” the statement reads.

The NGE pointed out that Bago acted beyond his powers, noting that any sanction must follow a thorough investigation by the NBC.

Citing section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the guild said freedom of expression and press freedom are constitutionally protected rights in Nigeria.

“Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago,” the editors warned, calling the move “unacceptable” in a democratic society.

The guild also called on media practitioners to uphold journalistic ethics and urged authorities to respect citizens’ rights to access information and express themselves freely.

“A free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy,” the editors said.