Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has raised strong concerns over the closure of Badegi 90.1 FM, a privately owned radio station operating in Minna, Niger State. The station was shut down on August 1, 2025, following an order reportedly issued by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
According to a statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Bologi Ibrahim, the decision was based on what the government described as “unethical” conduct by the station, including alleged incitement of the public against the state. Governor Bago was said to have instructed the Commissioner of Police to seal the station and also called for its license to be revoked.
Reacting to the development, MRA described the action as troubling and called on the Governor to reopen the station immediately and without conditions. In a statement released from Lagos, MRA’s Programme Officer, Mr. John Gbadamosi, emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution protects media freedom, and that holding public officials accountable should not be mistaken for unlawful behavior.
Gbadamosi stressed that the governor lacks the legal authority to shut down any radio station or revoke a broadcasting license. He noted that the regulation of broadcasting in Nigeria is solely the responsibility of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as provided by federal law.
Quoting Paragraph 9 of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, which warns against arbitrary actions that violate the rights of others, MRA insisted that any interference in media operations must follow legal procedures. “Public officials must work within the limits of their authority,” Gbadamosi said, “and avoid taking steps that infringe on press freedom or the public’s access to information.”
He also encouraged the NBC to reinforce its independence by ensuring that broadcast regulation remains firmly within its jurisdiction. According to MRA, grievances involving media conduct should be addressed through established legal and regulatory channels, not through executive orders.
MRA further urged Governor Bago to clarify the situation publicly and reaffirm his administration’s respect for the independence of the media. The organization reiterated that an open, independent press plays a vital role in any democracy by informing citizens and monitoring those in power.
By Esther Olaoluwa
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