IPC Slams Niger Governor Over “Illegal” Closure Of Badegi 90.1FM, Demands Immediate Reopening
The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos has condemned what it calls the illegal and unjustified shutdown of Badegi 90.1FM in Niger State, allegedly ordered by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
According to IPC’s Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, the station was abruptly shut down on Friday, August 1, during an expanded meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), after airing content perceived to be critical of the state government.
Reacting to the development, IPC Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, described the move as a “clear abuse of executive power and a blatant disregard for media independence.”
He insisted that if there were any grievances against the station, proper regulatory channels should have been followed rather than resorting to arbitrary action.
“This is not a military regime. Freedom of expression is enshrined in our democracy, and no Governor has the constitutional right to shut down a media house because of unfavourable content,” Mr. Arogundade stated.
The IPC-SPJ Hub called for the immediate and unconditional reopening of Badegi 90.1FM and warned against further clampdowns on press freedom in Nigeria, especially by public office holders.
Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, signed off the statement, emphasising that journalists and media organisations must be allowed to operate without fear or intimidation.
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