The Niger State Government has reversed its earlier stance on shutting down Badeggi FM 90.1, clarifying that the private radio station has not been suspended and continues to broadcast.
Bellnews reports that this development comes days after Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, during an expanded APC caucus meeting in Minna on August 1, directed the suspension of the station over alleged unethical broadcasting and incitement.
The order sparked outrage, drawing widespread condemnation from media stakeholders and civil society groups.
In a statement on Monday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, said the state government is committed to following due process while respecting press freedom.
Mamman said, “To demonstrate its commitment to lawful procedure and media independence, the Niger State Government confirms that Badeggi FM 90.1 has remained on air uninterrupted, pending a formal investigation by the NBC.”
She emphasised that the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) alone has the constitutional authority to regulate broadcast licenses, including the power to suspend or revoke decisions.
The statement further noted that the state government had initiated the process of formally notifying the NBC about allegations against the station, in order to prompt appropriate regulatory action.
The commissioner stated, “While the State Government prioritises national peace, unity, and responsible journalism, it fully respects the rule of law and the regulatory powers vested in the NBC by Nigeria’s legal framework.”
Describing the continued operation of Badeggi FM as a reflection of democratic values, Mamman said, “The continued operation of Badeggi FM 90.1 serves as clear evidence of the state’s respect for democratic values, regulatory integrity, and press freedom.”
To address broader concerns, the government announced plans to convene a stakeholder dialogue involving media executives, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and other actors to promote responsible journalism and strengthen institutional trust.
The commissioner assured residents that the government would not interfere in matters under the exclusive jurisdiction of federal regulators, urging the public to “remain calm and await the outcome of the NBC’s investigation in the collective interest of peace, accountability, and national development.”