Badeggi FM Defies Shutdown Order, Demands Evidence From Niger Governor

Badeggi FM, a private radio station based in Niger State, has rejected Governor Umar Bago’s directive ordering its closure, describing the move as politically motivated and lacking legal basis.

This was revealed during a live appearance by the station’s General Manager, Aisha Shuaibu, on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday. She insisted that the allegations of inciting unrest and spreading anti-government views were unfounded.

“If he is saying Badeggi FM has been unethical, that we’re inciting the people against the government, then where is the evidence? We need to see the evidence. The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) should be the one to weigh all the facts. If we are guilty, NBC is there to sanction us,” Shuaibu said.

She stated that the station had not received any formal complaint or notice from the NBC, nor had it been sanctioned in any way. Despite the state government’s shutdown order and a visit from the Niger State Urban Development Board — during which the building was marked — Badeggi FM continues to broadcast.

According to Shuaibu, the station’s coverage of grassroots issues such as insecurity, banditry, and local community struggles might be the real reason behind the governor’s discomfort.

“From our end, we always ensure we speak to people directly affected by insecurity: residents, farmers, youth leaders, and vigilantes. They appear on our live shows to tell us exactly what is happening in their communities. The governor, I believe, doesn’t want the truth out. He doesn’t want us highlighting these facts,” she said.

Tensions reportedly escalated after the station aired an interview with former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) chairman, Muhammad Nami, who is widely seen as a potential gubernatorial aspirant in 2027.

“I think the only thing we did recently was interview Muhammad Nami, who everyone knows is interested in contesting in 2027. I feel the governor feels threatened. He doesn’t want criticism or any alternative political option in the state, especially after the APC endorsed him for a second term,” Shuaibu stated.

In a more serious twist, Shuaibu revealed that the governor allegedly accused the station’s managing director of acts tantamount to treason — a charge she described as defamatory.

“That treason allegation against our managing director is completely unacceptable. We intend to sue him for defamation of character,” she added.

Badeggi FM is now calling on the National Broadcasting Commission to conduct an independent investigation into the matter and to act based on facts, not political pressure.