The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has addressed concerns from media stakeholders over the recent suspension of Badeggi FM’s operations in Minna, Niger State.
Minister Mohammed Idris noted that the suspension of broadcasting licences in Nigeria is the statutory responsibility of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), in line with the provisions of the law.
This was disclosed in a document shared by the Special Assistant of Media to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Rabiu Ibrahim on Saturday.
“While acknowledging the concerns raised, the ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law,” the statement read in part.
He further noted that the Information Minister has urged all parties involved to remain calm.
“The minister appeals to all parties to remain calm, assuring that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner,” he said.
The station’s shutdown followed a directive by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, during an expanded All Progressive Congress (APC) Caucus Meeting in Minna on August 1, which was attended by the Minister of information and national orientation.
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Governor Bago is reported to have accused the station of engaging in unethical broadcasting and incitement against the state government.
“In light of this, the Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived “unethical behavior” of Badegi FM to the NBC for resolution, ” the document noted.
However, the Minister urged all concerned parties to remain calm while the NBC considers the matter, assuring that the Commission has the structures in place to ensure a fair and impartial outcome.
