August 2, 2025 – By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the shutdown of Badeggi Radio by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, describing the action as a dangerous overreach and a direct threat to press freedom and democratic governance.
In a statement issued Saturday and jointly signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild criticized the governor for acting beyond his constitutional powers and bypassing the due process required in regulating media operations.
“This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where a free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” the statement read.
Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the NGE reaffirmed that freedom of expression and press freedom are constitutionally guaranteed and must be upheld at all times.
The Guild emphasized that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is legally empowered to sanction broadcast media, and such actions must follow proper investigation and adherence to the broadcast code.
“The closure of Badeggi Radio, a vital platform for public discourse and information dissemination, is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy,” the statement added.
“Governor Bago acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station. The power to sanction television and radio stations only lies with the NBC after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach.”
The Guild welcomed the remarks by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, who acknowledged the constitutional irregularity in the governor’s action, but stressed that such recognition must be followed by concrete steps.
“The Federal Government should order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station while an investigation is carried out,” the Guild urged.
Warning against the return of oppressive tactics reminiscent of military rule, the Guild likened the action to arbitrary clampdowns of the past.
“Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago,” the editors stated.
While acknowledging Governor Bago’s claim that Badeggi Radio incited violence, the NGE insisted that such allegations require proper investigation and proof before any sanctions can be considered.
“Allegations of incitement are serious and must be addressed through lawful channels—not executive fiat,” the statement said.
The Guild also urged media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession, stressing that while responsibility is key, authorities must respect due process and constitutional limits.
“The Guild reiterates that a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy and demands that governments at all levels respect and uphold this fundamental right,” the statement concluded.
