The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the closure of Badeggi Radio by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, describing the action as a blatant attack on press freedom and democracy.
In a statement issued and signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild said the shutdown of the station “undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where a free press is essential for holding those in power accountable.”
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights—both of which guarantee freedom of expression and press freedom—the editors maintained that the governor had acted outside his powers. They stressed that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal authority to sanction broadcast stations, and then only after a thorough investigation of any alleged breaches of its code.
“We are happy that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, has pointed this out. But this should go beyond mere observation. The federal government should order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station while investigation is carried out,” the Guild stated.
The NGE warned that arbitrary closures of media houses evoke memories of the “dark days of military rule” which ended 26 years ago. It added that while Governor Bago’s allegation that the station incited violence is serious, such claims must be investigated and proven before any punitive action can be taken.
The editors also urged media professionals to operate within the code of ethics of journalism, maintaining responsible conduct in their work, while calling on authorities to respect citizens’ rights to access information and express themselves freely.
“Badeggi Radio should be reopened while the investigation continues,” the Guild insisted, reiterating that “a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy” and demanding that governments at all levels uphold this fundamental right.
