Amnesty International Slams Niger Governor for Unlawful Closure of Badeggi FM

Amnesty International has strongly criticised the Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, for ordering the shutdown of Badeggi 90.1 FM Radio in Minna. The human rights organisation described the move as illegal and a direct assault on press freedom.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Amnesty International condemned the governor’s accusations that the station incited violence, calling them an abuse of power and a display of intolerance toward dissenting voices.

“The governor’s claims that the station is promoting violence, and his reckless call to revoke its license, reflect a blatant misuse of authority and a disregard for criticism,” the group said. “This action is unjustifiable and sets a dangerous precedent.”

Amnesty further highlighted the worsening insecurity in Niger State, pointing to widespread killings and mass displacements caused by bandits, while accusing both the federal and state governments of failing to protect citizens. “Blaming a radio station for the government’s security failures is a clear indication of failed leadership,” the organisation added.

The closure of Badeggi FM, Amnesty warned, is part of a disturbing pattern aimed at intimidating journalists and stifling press freedom across Nigeria. It urged Governor Bago to rescind the order and respect the rights of independent media to operate without fear.

“Under Nigerian law, a governor lacks the authority to shut down a radio station,” Amnesty stated. “Scapegoating independent media to cover up security lapses is an outright attack on citizens’ access to truthful and balanced information.”

Governor Bago had, on Thursday, ordered the station’s closure citing alleged incitement and unethical broadcasting practices.