The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has acknowledged the reactions and concerns expressed by media professionals and stakeholders following the recent suspension of Badegi FM, a Minna-based radio station, by the Niger State Government.
Reports indicate that the suspension directive came from the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, during an expanded APC caucus meeting held in Minna on August 1.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation was in attendance at the meeting.
Governor Bago reportedly based his directive on claims of unethical broadcasts and inciting content targeted at the state government.
In a statement signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, it said the Ministry recognised the issues raised by the state government.
The ministry added that it is important to clarify that matters relating to the suspension or withdrawal of broadcasting licences are legally within the jurisdiction of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the statutory regulatory body.
In this regard, the Ministry also welcomed the decision by the Niger State Government to escalate the matter to the NBC, describing it as the appropriate channel to address such allegations of misconduct.
“The Minister appeals to all parties to remain calm,” the statement said.
It assured that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner.
