NBA Condemns Niger State FM Shutdown, Labels it ‘Executive Rascality’

The Nigerian Bar Association has strongly criticized the suspension of Badeggi Radio FM, describing the action as “executive rascality of the highest order” and demanding an immediate reversal of the directive.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Saturday by NBA President, Afam Osigwe, following Governor Umar Bago’s decision on Friday to halt the operations of the state-owned radio station. The governor had accused the station of unethical broadcasting and inciting public sentiment against the government.

But the NBA warned that the move was unconstitutional and a serious affront to press freedom. “This constitutes executive rascality of the highest order. It is a blatant abuse of power that undermines constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licences or shut down any media establishment,” Osigwe stated.

He emphasized that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is legally empowered to regulate and sanction broadcasters in Nigeria, and only through due process.

The NBA maintained that Governor Bago’s directive is not only unlawful but also void of any legal effect. Osigwe urged the Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities to resist carrying out “illegal orders that infringe on constitutional rights.”

According to the Association, the shutdown of Niger State FM is a direct attack on media freedom and democratic values.

“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,” the statement read.