The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, to reverse the shutdown of Badeggi FM, an independent radio station in Minna. The organisation also demanded the reinstatement of the station’s operating licence and the withdrawal of alleged threats to demolish its premises.
In an open letter dated 2 August 2025, SERAP described the governor’s actions as unlawful and a direct attack on press freedom and constitutional rights. It urged Governor Bago to halt all forms of intimidation against the station’s owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, and its staff, and to guarantee their safety and freedom.
SERAP accused the governor of weaponising state institutions including the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and law enforcement agencies to suppress dissent and independent journalism. The group said the closure of the station, profiling of its owner, and threats of demolition were based on vague and unsubstantiated allegations of “promoting violence” and “inciting the public.”
“These actions are in clear violation of Section 39 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended) and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,” SERAP stated. “Silencing critical voices on vague national security claims undermines democratic participation and violates international human rights obligations.”
Governor Bago had reportedly issued the shutdown directive during an APC stakeholders’ meeting on 1 August 2025, expressing dissatisfaction with the station’s broadcasts. The order included sealing the station’s premises, revoking its licence, and profiling its owner.
SERAP warned that such crackdowns risk setting a dangerous precedent ahead of the 2027 general elections, threatening independent journalism and public access to information. It called on the state government to foster an environment where media organisations can operate freely without fear of reprisals.
“There is significant public interest in the ability of media outlets like Badeggi FM to function effectively and serve as public watchdogs,” SERAP concluded. “The restrictions imposed by your government are neither lawful nor necessary and must be rescinded without delay.”
