IBAN condemns Baddegi FM closure directive
The Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has condemned the recent action of the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, who reportedly ordered the shutdown of Baddegi FM, a duly licensed private radio station operating within the state. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Ahmed Tijani Ramalan and Director of Publicity, Gregory […]
The Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has condemned the recent action of the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, who reportedly ordered the shutdown of Baddegi FM, a duly licensed private radio station operating within the state.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Ahmed Tijani Ramalan and Director of Publicity, Gregory Odutayo, IBAN described the order as high-handed, undemocratic, and a flagrant violation of press freedom and the rule of law.
The body said it undermined the constitutional rights to free expression and access to information and set a dangerous precedent for the arbitrary use of power against the media.
They called for the immediate re-opening of Baddegi FM and urged the governor to pursue any grievances through the appropriate legal channels.
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IBAN also stated that it might be forced to call for a boycott of the activities of the state government by all private broadcast stations in Nigeria if the governor of Niger State failed to reverse the “unlawful directive”.
“IBAN aligns with the position of the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who has openly condemned this unconstitutional act.
“As the body representing private radio and television broadcasters across Nigeria, we reaffirm that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)—as empowered by law—is authorized to suspend or revoke the license of any broadcast station in Nigeria.
“If there are legitimate concerns about the conduct of the station, the courts and regulatory agencies exist to address such issues within the bounds of law and democratic norms.
“This kind of executive overreach not only threatens the survival of independent media in Nigeria but also sends a chilling message to broadcasters nationwide.
“IBAN will not stand by while the fundamental rights of its members are trampled upon.
“We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to rise in defense of press freedom, constitutional governance, and the rule of law.
“The media is not an enemy of the state—it is a cornerstone of democracy.”