NBA Condemns Shutting Down Of Radio Station In Niger, Demands Immediate Reversal \u2022 Channels Television
\n<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the shutdown of Badeggi FM, describing the action as an \u201cexecutive rascality of the highest order\u201d and demanding an immediate reversal of the directive.<\/strong><\/p>\n On Friday, Governor Umar Bago of Niger State ordered the suspension of Badeggi Radio FM\u2019s activities, citing instances of unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government as justification for the suspension.<\/p>\n However, in a statement on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe, described the governor\u2019s action as an assault on press freedom and democratic governance.<\/p>\n \u201cThis constitutes executive rascality of the highest order. It is a blatant abuse of power that undermines constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licences or shut down any media establishment,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n \u201cIn Nigeria, only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, including the suspension or revocation of licences, subject to due process.\u201d<\/p>\n READ ALSO<\/strong>: Niger Gov Bago Orders Revocation Of Badegi Radio Licence<\/p>\n The NBA further stated that Governor Bago\u2019s directive is entirely unlawful and of no legal effect.<\/p>\n Osigwe stressed that the Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities must refuse to implement illegal orders that infringe on constitutional rights, reiterating that media regulation must follow due process through established statutory mechanisms, not arbitrary executive action.<\/p>\n The association also noted that the actions taken against Badeggi FM constitute a direct affront to press freedom and violate Nigeria\u2019s democratic norms.<\/p>\n \u201cWe call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts. The NBA also urges all levels of government to uphold the rule of law, respect constitutional boundaries, and protect the freedom of the press. A free and independent media is not a privilege \u2013 it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n