Four suspected hoodlums have invaded Radio Nigeria Harmony 103.5 FM, located in Idofian within the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state, damaging its fortified cables and looting valuable belongings.

The incident reportedly happened at about 4 a.m. on Tuesday. The hoodlums arrived on two motorbikes and swiftly carried out the act.

They overpowered the night guard, beat him, and also took the personal phones of on-duty officers.

As a result of the damage, the station has been forced to cease operations.

Speaking on the incident, Hajia Binta Abubakar Mora, the Assistant Director of Programmes, said the attack poses a significant threat to the broadcasting industry in Nigeria.

“This brazen attack is an immense threat to the entire broadcasting sector in Nigeria. Similar incidents have previously occurred at our sister stations in Lokoja (Kogi State) and Lafia (Nassarawa State). Currently, we are unable to broadcast, and the damage inflicted upon our armored cables is quite expensive to repair. This financial burden has now become a management concern.

“However, the safety and well-being of our staff who were present during the attack hold far greater value than the material possessions that were destroyed. Thankfully, no further harm was inflicted upon them. We express our gratitude to the Almighty for ensuring their safety,” she said.

Mora expressed concern about the location of the station and called upon the Nigerian government for assistance in resuming operations.

She stressed the need to improve the working environment, making it safer and more conducive for dedicated personnel.

She said, “Here at Harmony FM, our current location is isolated and unfriendly. The nearby orphanage building is even invisible from our premises. The Nigerian government must step in and fortify our security measures to ensure our protection. This is also an opportune moment to reinforce security measures for all media organizations owned by FRCN, especially since a majority of them are situated outside state capitals. With heightened security and consistent electricity supply, we can combat criminal activities effectively.”

Recounting his ordeal, the night guard who was attacked, Wasiu Zubair, said, “When the vandals arrived around 2:30 a.m., they interrogated me in the Hausa language, inquiring about the number of personnel present. Proceeding to rob me of my phone, they proceeded to tie me up and subject me to further physical assault.”