The Niger State Government has restated its commitment to democratic governance, due process, and press freedom following recent concerns raised about Badegi FM 90.1, a privately owned radio station in the state.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago had, during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) Caucus meeting in Minna on August 1, expressed worry over alleged unethical broadcasting and incitement linked to the station. He reportedly directed that the station’s operations be suspended pending a review.
However, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, who attended the meeting, urged restraint and reminded the gathering that the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the constitutional mandate to regulate broadcast licences, including suspension or revocation.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 4, the Ministry of Information and Strategy confirmed that Badegi FM has continued broadcasting and will remain on air until the NBC completes a formal investigation.
The statement stressed that while the government values national peace, unity, and responsible journalism, it recognises the NBC’s exclusive authority under Nigerian law to take regulatory action. The state has formally begun the process of notifying the NBC of the allegations for necessary steps.
The government also urged all media practitioners in the state to comply with the Nigerian Broadcasting Code and uphold professional ethics.
It disclosed that plans were underway for a stakeholder dialogue involving media executives, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and other groups to promote responsible journalism and strengthen trust.
Reassuring the public of its non-interference in regulatory matters, the state government called on stakeholders to respect lawful processes and await the NBC’s findings.
