The suspension of Badeggi FM’s operations by the Niger State government has reignited discussions about the responsibilities and oversight of media outlets in Nigeria. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago communicated the suspension during a high-profile APC Caucus Meeting in Minna, citing what he termed “unethical broadcasting” practices and incitement to unrest by the station.
Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, attended this meeting and later issued a statement addressing concerns within the media community.
The Ministry emphasized that the authority to suspend broadcasting licences legally rests with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and not state governments. “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 spokesperson Rabiu Ibrahim said.
The Ministry also praised the Government of Niger State for formally lodging a complaint with the NBC against Badeggi FM, expressing hope for an impartial resolution. “The Minister appeals to all parties to remain calm, assuring that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner,” the statement concluded.
This incident sheds light on the delicate intersection between political sensitivity and regulatory authority in Nigerian broadcast media.