Radio Station Suspension: Information Minister Calls for Calm

By Toffa Momoh, Abuja

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that the Ministry has taken note of concerns raised by various stakeholders in the media industry regarding the recent directive by the Niger State Government to suspend the operations of Badeggi FM, a radio station in Minna.

A statement issued on Saturday and signed by the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, Rabiu Ibrahim, amplified the directive given by the Niger State Government, calling for relative peace.

The statement reads in parts: According to reports, the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, issued the directive during an expanded Niger State APC Caucus Meeting in Minna on August 1, which the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation attended. The Governor reportedly cited allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government

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 behavior” of Badeggi 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.