The Nigerian Bar Association has criticised Niger State Governor Umar Bago for ordering the shutdown of Badeggi Radio FM, calling the move unlawful and a clear abuse of power.
Governor Bago had on Friday directed the immediate suspension of the station’s operations, accusing it of broadcasting content that incited the public against the state government.
But in a strong statement released on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe described the shutdown as “executive rascality of the highest order” and warned that such action threatens democratic principles.
“This is a blatant abuse of power that undermines constitutional democracy and the rule of law,” Osigwe said. “The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licences or shut down any media establishment.”
According to the NBA, only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is legally empowered to regulate the operations of broadcast stations in Nigeria, including suspensions or revocations of licences—and only through due process.
Osigwe said the directive from the governor was “entirely unlawful and of no legal effect.”
He urged the police and all other enforcement bodies to refuse carrying out what he described as an illegal order that violates constitutional rights.
“The Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities must resist any attempt to enforce such illegal directives. Media regulation must follow due process through established statutory mechanisms, not arbitrary executive action,” Osigwe said.
The NBA described the shutdown of Badeggi FM as a direct attack on press freedom and Nigeria’s democratic values.
It called on the Niger State Government to immediately reverse the order and allow the station to resume its activities.
“A free and independent media is not a privilege—it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society,” the association said.
