‘You lack legal authority’ — NBA asks Bago to reverse radio station closure

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on Umar Bago, governor of Niger state, to rescind the “unconstitutional directive” to shut down Badeggi FM radio station.

Bago had 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 on Saturday, Afam Osigwe, NBA president, said only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal authority to regulate or close broadcasting stations in Nigeria.

Osigwe described the governor’s action as “executive rascality of the highest order” and a blatant abuse of power undermining constitutional democracy.

He warned that security agencies must not comply with unlawful executive directives, noting that the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of expression under section 39, including the right to own and operate media outlets.

“The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licenses or shut down any media establishment. Only the NBC has the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, subject to due process,” the statement reads.

The NBA president urged Bago to respect constitutional boundaries and protect press freedom, describing a free media as a constitutional right and a cornerstone of democracy.

“We call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts,” the statement reads.

“The NBA also urges all levels of government to uphold the rule of law, respect constitutional boundaries, and protect the freedom of the press. A free and independent media is not a privilege—it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society.”