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The Niger State Government has initiated formal steps to notify the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) of allegations against Badeggi FM 90.1, a private radio station operating in the state, as part of what it describes as a commitment to due process, regulatory integrity, and press freedom.
In a press release issued Monday, the state’s Ministry of Information and Strategy reaffirmed the government’s dedication to democratic governance and the rule of law amid the controversy surrounding the station’s recent broadcasts.
The issue came to light last Friday, when Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago raised concerns at an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) Caucus Meeting in Minna over alleged unethical broadcasting and inciting content reportedly aired by Badegi FM.
The Governor had ordered a suspension of the station’s operations, pending further review.
However, following that announcement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation—who was also present at the meeting—called for calm, clarifying that only the NBC has the legal authority to suspend or revoke broadcast licenses in Nigeria.
In light of this, the Niger State Government stated that Badeggi FM remains operational and has not been taken off air, pending a formal investigation by the NBC.
The Ministry emphasized that the state respects media independence and is allowing due process to take its course.
“The Ministry has accordingly initiated the process of formally notifying the NBC of the allegations for appropriate regulatory action,” the statement read.
It further noted that while the state remains committed to national unity, public peace, and responsible journalism, it also recognizes and upholds the constitutional powers of the NBC as the country’s broadcast regulator.
To further support ethical journalism and prevent future conflicts, the Ministry announced plans to host a stakeholder dialogue involving media executives, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and other relevant actors.
“The continued operation of Badegi FM 90.1 serves as clear evidence of the state’s respect for democratic values, regulatory integrity, and press freedom,” the statement added.
Signed by Hon. Binta Mamman, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, the release called on all stakeholders to respect lawful processes and await the outcome of the NBC’s investigation in the interest of peace and accountability.
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