SERAP Gives Niger Governor 48 Hours To Reopen Badeggi FM

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has asked Niger State Governor Umaru Bago to reverse his decision to shut down Badeggi FM 90.1 within 48 hours.

The independent radio station, based in Minna, was ordered closed by the governor last week, prompting a sharp response from rights groups.

Governor Bago had reportedly directed the police and the state’s Commissioner for Homeland Security to seal the radio station, revoke its operating license, and prepare the premises for demolition. This move came after accusations that the station was airing content considered hostile to the government and inciting public unrest. The station’s owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, was also singled out for profiling over his alleged role in the broadcasts.

The action has raised concern about growing pressure on press freedom, especially as the country heads towards the 2027 general elections. SERAP believes the move could discourage the media from addressing critical issues or holding authorities accountable. According to the group, such restrictions create a climate of fear that limits open discussion and access to information.

SERAP, in a formal letter dated August 2 and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, accused the governor of using state power to suppress dissent and warned that the government’s actions were not in line with constitutional and international standards. The group said the government’s clampdown on Badeggi FM and its personnel goes beyond normal regulatory oversight and amounts to silencing independent journalism.

According to SERAP, shutting down the station and threatening to demolish its premises violates both the Nigerian Constitution and international treaties the country is part of. These treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, guarantee freedom of expression and the right to receive and share information. SERAP warned that such steps do not only silence the media but also deny the public the right to stay informed about issues that affect their lives.

The group has urged the governor to restore the radio station’s license, withdraw the threats to demolish its building, and stop all forms of harassment against the owner and staff. SERAP stated that these actions were not only unlawful but also a setback for Nigeria’s democracy, which depends on free and independent media to function properly.

SERAP made it clear that if the state government fails to act within the 48-hour window, it will head to court to enforce the rights of the station and its workers. The group reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and reminded the government that media platforms are essential to a healthy and transparent society.

The controversy continues to generate reactions across the country, with more citizens and rights bodies watching closely to see how the situation unfolds in the coming days.