The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Umar Bago of Niger State to reverse the revocation of Badeggi FM’s broadcast licence, warning of imminent legal action if the demand is not met.
In a strongly worded open letter dated 2 August 2025 and signed by Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s Deputy Director, the organisation condemned the decision to shut down Badeggi FM 90.1, describing it as an “unlawful crackdown on media freedom and freedom of expression.”
SERAP called on Governor Bago to reinstate the station’s licence, withdraw threats to demolish its premises, and cease all harassment of the station’s staff and its owner, Shuaibu Badeggi.
“Your government’s actions, including the vague and unsubstantiated allegation that the station is inciting violence, appear aimed at silencing critical voices,” the group said.
“This is a serious breach of your constitutional oath and Nigeria’s international obligations.”
The organisation said that the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and security agencies must not be weaponised against independent media, warning that the closure of Badeggi FM could discourage press participation in democratic discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, SERAP asserted that the station’s closure constitutes a blatant violation of freedom of expression and media rights.
“Your directive is neither lawful, necessary, nor in the public interest. It undermines the ability of Nigerians to seek and receive information and participate in public debate,” the letter stated.
The group also demanded that Governor Bago publicly guarantee the safety and liberty of all staff at the radio station and end impunity for violations of media freedom in Niger State.
“Should your government fail to act within 48 hours, SERAP will initiate appropriate legal proceedings to compel compliance,” it warned.
SERAP said the profiling of Badeggi FM and its owner could have a chilling effect on independent journalism across the country, stressing that free media is vital to a democratic society.
Efforts to obtain an official response from Governor Bago’s office were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
