The International Press Centre (IPC), through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has strongly condemned the closure of Badegi 90.1FM in Niger State, allegedly ordered by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, describing the action as unlawful and an attack on press freedom.

According to reports gathered by BenriNews, the radio station's closure followed an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) meeting held on Friday, August 1, where Governor Bago reportedly directed the shutdown after the station broadcast content perceived as critical of his administration.

In a statement issued over the weekend, IPC Executive Director Mr. Lanre Arogundade characterized the governor's action as "a pure abuse of executive powers and an abysmal display of lack of regard for the media institution."

"Assuming, without conceding, that the station committed any infraction, the proper procedure would have been to lodge a complaint with the relevant media regulatory bodies," Arogundade stated, emphasizing that Nigeria is no longer under military rule where intimidation tactics should prevail.

The IPC insisted that only a competent court of law has the authority to determine the legitimacy of any alleged media offense, not executive fiat. The organization has called for the immediate and unconditional reopening of Badegi 90.1FM.

"This is a democracy," the statement continued, "where freedom of speech, expression, and thought are constitutionally guaranteed." The Centre warned against further crackdowns on press freedom by public officials, reinforcing the media's critical role in Nigeria's democratic landscape.

This incident comes amid growing concerns about press freedom in Niger State, with the Northern media forum reportedly threatening a boycott over what they describe as press suppression by Governor Bago's administration.

Amnesty International has also reportedly criticized the governor's actions, stating that blaming radio stations for security failures constitutes an attack on press freedom.

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