SHUTDOWN SHOWDOWN: SERAP DRAGS NIGER GOVERNOR OVER BADEGGI FM CRACKDOWN
By: IDNN News Desk
MINNA, NIGER STATE — A media station shuttered. A building marked for demolition. A governor accused of tyranny.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has launched a fierce response to the shutdown of Badeggi FM 90.1 by Governor Umar Bago, calling the move illegal, unconstitutional, and a threat to Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
In an open letter dated August 2, SERAP handed the governor a 48-hour ultimatum: Reopen the station. Reinstate its licence. Stop harassing its owner. Or face legal action.
“Your vague, unfounded allegations of ‘inciting violence’ are clearly aimed at silencing dissent,” the letter stated.
“This is not just about one radio station. It’s about the right of Nigerians to know, speak, and choose freely.”
What Happened?
Last Friday, during an expanded APC Caucus meeting, Governor Bago accused Badeggi FM of inciting unrest and ordered security operatives to:
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Seal the station’s premises
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Revoke its broadcasting licence
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Demolish the building
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Profile its owner, Shuaibu Badeggi
The sudden order shocked media circles and civil society groups alike.
SERAP: “This Is A Constitutional Meltdown”
SERAP’s response is blunt.
The group insists the move violates:
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Section 39 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution
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Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
“The clampdown undermines Nigeria’s commitment to free speech,” said Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP Deputy Director.
“If not reversed, we will see you in court.”
Outrage Erupts: Editors, Lawyers, Ministry Speak
SERAP’s stance has ignited a wave of public resistance from key institutions:
Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE)
“This is executive overreach. The governor is not NBC. He cannot revoke licences,”
said Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, NGE’s leadership.
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Minna Branch
“Executive orders cannot override constitutional rights. Go to court or NBC if you have evidence,”
warned Isyaku Barau, NBA chairman.
Federal Ministry of Information
The ministry, through the spokesperson of Minister Mohammed Idris, emphasized:
“Only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal mandate to regulate broadcasters.”
Demolition Marked, Democracy Threatened
The state government has reportedly marked Badeggi FM’s building for demolition. Staff say they’ve faced harassment and intimidation, while the owner remains under investigation.
Media unions fear a dangerous precedent is being set, especially with the 2027 elections approaching.
“We are watching democracy unravel in real time,” said a representative of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Niger State.
“This is no longer just about Badeggi FM. It’s about silencing every dissenting voice in the state.”
What’s Next?
SERAP has vowed to initiate legal proceedings if the shutdown is not reversed by the deadline. They insist this case could shape how Nigerian authorities treat the press — and the public — in years to come.
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