Editors condemn Badeggi Radio closure, urge respect for press freedom

Editors condemn Badeggi Radio closure, urge respect for press freedom

By Jeffrey Agbo

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the recent closure of Badeggi Radio in Niger State by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, describing the action as an attack on press freedom and democracy.

In a statement on Saturday signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild criticised the governor’s directive, noting that the power to sanction radio or television stations lies solely with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and not with any state official.

“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 read.

“Governor Bago acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station. The power to sanction television and radio stations only lies with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach of the Code.”

Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the NGE emphasised that freedom of expression and press freedom are constitutionally protected rights in Nigeria.

The Guild commended the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, for acknowledging the governor’s overreach, but insisted the federal government must take further steps to “order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station, while investigation is carried out.”

Governor Bago had alleged that the station incited violence, but the Guild stressed that such claims should be investigated and substantiated before any punitive action is taken.

“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.

“Governor Bago’s allegation of incitement of violence by the radio station is a serious issue, which has to be investigated and proven before any action can be taken. We urge the media to operate under strict adherence to the code of ethics of journalism, with responsible conduct at the back of the minds of the professionals.

“We also call on the authorities to take measures to respect the rights of citizens to access information and express themselves freely. Badeggi Radio should be reopened while the investigation continues,” the statement added.

While urging media outlets to adhere strictly to journalistic ethics, the Guild insisted that Badeggi Radio be reopened immediately, asserting that “a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy.”