The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly denounced the recent closure of Badeggi Radio by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, labeling the action a blatant assault on press freedom and democratic values.
In a press statement issued on Saturday and jointly signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the governor’s order as “an act of censorship and intimidation” that undermines democratic governance and the constitutionally protected right to free expression.
“This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where a free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” the statement read.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the NGE emphasized that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal mandate to sanction broadcast stations, and that must be done following due process.
“We are pleased that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, has noted this overreach. However, it should not stop at recognition—the Federal Government must take steps to reopen the station while investigations are ongoing,” the Guild demanded.
The Guild also warned against a slide back to the days of military dictatorship, drawing disturbing parallels between the current action and the arbitrary clampdowns of the past.
“Government officials should remember that Nigeria is under democratic rule. Arbitrary closure of media houses is unacceptable and reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago,” the editors warned.
While acknowledging Governor Bago’s claims that the station incited violence, the Guild maintained that such allegations must be subjected to proper investigation and legal procedures before any action is taken.
“Incitement to violence is a serious charge, but such a claim must be investigated and proven before punitive measures are taken. The media must continue to operate with responsibility and adherence to the code of ethics of journalism,” the statement added.
The NGE called on both government and the media to uphold their respective duties—governments to protect citizens’ rights to information and expression, and journalists to remain ethical and professional.
“We urge the authorities to respect the right of citizens to access information freely. Badeggi Radio should be reopened without delay, pending the outcome of investigations,” the Guild said.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of press freedom, the NGE concluded: “A free and independent press is a cornerstone of any functioning democracy. Governments at all levels must respect and uphold this right.”
