The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has given Governor Umar Bago of Niger State 48 hours to reverse the shutdown of Badeggi FM 90.1 or face legal action.
In an open letter dated August 2, 2025, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the group described the closure, licence revocation, and demolition threat as arbitrary and unlawful.
“Your vague, unfounded and unsubstantiated allegations of ‘inciting violence’ against Badeggi FM and its owner are apparently made to silence the radio station and its owner,” the letter stated.
Governor Bago had reportedly directed the police and the Commissioner for Homeland Security to seal the Minna-based station, profile its owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, and demolish the premises. SERAP accused the governor of weaponising regulatory agencies and law enforcement to suppress press freedom.
The organisation argued that the crackdown on Badeggi FM contravened Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
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It continued, “Media outlets in Niger State must be free to enable debate on issues of public interest without fear of reprisals.”
SERAP said the station’s closure and threats to its staff undermined democracy and jeopardised Nigerians’ right to access information.
“Your directive is neither lawful nor necessary. It also does not protect any legitimate public interest,” the letter added.
It demanded that the governor withdraw the threats and reinstate the station’s licence within 48 hours or face legal consequences.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 hours. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel compliance,” the group warned.