NBA to Governor Bago: “You lack legal authority to seal off Badeggi FM”

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has asked Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, to reopen Badeggi FM radio station.

Governor Bago had instructed the state’s police commissioner to seal off the station, citing alleged incitement of violence.

According to Bologi Ibrahim, the Governor’s chief press secretary, the radio station had engaged in unethical daily operations.

However, in a statement issued on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe condemned the Governor’s action, asserting that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) had the legal mandate to regulate or shut down broadcasting stations in Nigeria.

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He described the move as executive lawlessness and an abuse of power that threatened the foundation of constitutional democracy.

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Osigwe cautioned security agencies against enforcing unlawful orders, stressing that the 1999 Constitution specifically Section 39 guaranteed freedom of expression and the right to own and operate media platforms.

He said, “ The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licenses or shut down any media establishment. Only the NBC has the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, subject to due process.”

The NBA president called on Governor Bago to respect constitutional limits and uphold press freedom, emphasising that an independent media was essential to democracy.

He added, “We call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts.

“The NBA also urges all levels of government to uphold the rule of law, respect constitutional boundaries, and protect the freedom of the press. A free and independent media is not a privilege—it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society.”