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INFORMATION MINISTER REACTS TO GOVERNOR’S SHUT-DOWN OF RADIO STATION, SAYS ONLY NBC CAN SUSPEND RADIO LICENCE
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reacted to the ongoing battle between Badeggi Radio Station and the Niger State government.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago had directed shutting down of the radio station and confiscation of its license, citing allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government.
The development has generated heated reactions across different quarters.
Amnesty International, a leading human rights group, had condemned the action, describing it as unlawful and an attack on media freedom.
Weighing in via a statement issued on Saturday, minister of Information and National Orientation acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders over the development, assuring that the issue would be resolved impartially.
The Minister, while welcoming the decision taken by the Niger government, however, noted that the suspension of broadcasting licences is vested on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The statement which his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, signed on his behalf, read, “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. 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 minister, however, appealed to all stakeholders concerned to exercise calm as the NBC has necessary measures to resolve the issue with fairness.
“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.”
