The Federal Government of Nigeria has clarified that the power to suspend or revoke broadcast licences lies exclusively with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), not state governors.
This statement comes in response to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago’s directive to immediately shut down Badeggi FM, a radio station based in Minna, the state capital.
Governor Bago Orders Shutdown Over Alleged “Unethical Broadcasting”
Governor Bago reportedly issued the directive during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting held at the Niger State Government House. According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor ordered:
-
Immediate shutdown of Badeggi FM
-
Confiscation of the station’s broadcast licence
-
Profiling of the station’s owner by security agencies
The reason given was the station’s alleged “unethical broadcasts” and incitement against the government.
FG Responds: NBC Is Sole Regulator of Broadcast Licences
Reacting to the development, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, issued a statement through his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, affirming that only the NBC has the legal authority to take such actions.
“While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law,” the statement reads.
The Minister, who was present at the APC meeting where the governor gave the directive, urged media stakeholders to remain calm and assured that the NBC has the proper mechanisms to handle complaints in a fair and lawful manner.
Badeggi FM’s Fate to Be Decided by NBC
The Federal Government also welcomed the Niger State Government’s decision to formally report Badeggi FM’s conduct to the NBC for further investigation and possible regulatory action.
“The Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived unethical behavior of Badeggi FM to the NBC for resolution,” the statement added.