Information Minister schools Gov Bago over closure of radio station

The Minister of Information, Muhammad Idris has cautioned the Niger State governor, Umar Bago over the recent closure of Badeggi FM radio station.

Idris in a statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, his special assistant on media said the ministry is concerned over the action of the governor.

Recall that Bago had directed the commissioner of police in the state to seal the radio station for allegedly inciting violence in the state.

However, in the statement, the minister said the only agency with the legal authority to take such a decision is the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

He said only NBC has the right to either suspend or revoke broadcast licences.

“While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law.

“In light of this, the Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived “unethical behaviour” of Badegi FM to the NBC for resolution.

“The Minister appeals to all parties to remain calm, assuring that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner,” the minister said.