The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised Niger State Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago for ordering the immediate closure of Badeggi FM, a private radio station.
The party described the governor’s action as a direct attack on press freedom and democratic principles, warning that such moves erode constitutional rights and set a dangerous precedent.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused Governor Bago of displaying authoritarian behaviour similar to military-era repression.
The party linked the incident to a growing pattern of political intolerance among governors affiliated with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a recent case in Edo State where Governor Monday Okpebholo declared opposition figure Peter Obi persona non grata.
ADC emphasised that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of expression and press freedom, stressing that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal mandate to regulate broadcast stations.
The party condemned the governor’s decision as an overreach of executive power, warning that silencing media outlets could lead to broader suppression of dissenting voices.
“If Governor Bago is uncomfortable with the truth, he should remember that he was elected to serve the people, not to rule over them as an emperor,” the statement read. “Nigeria is a democracy, not a monarchy.”
ADC called for the immediate reopening of Badeggi FM and demanded an independent investigation into the alleged use of security forces to enforce the shutdown.
It also urged the National Assembly to strengthen laws protecting media independence and preventing political interference in broadcasting regulations.
At the time of reporting, Governor Bago’s office had not responded to the allegations. The ADC warned that allowing such actions to go unchecked could embolden further attacks on press freedom across the country.
Also Read:
NAGGW warns of desert encroachment in 11 Northern states
Nearly 2,000 students apply for 500 bursary slots in Cross River North
Rabies outbreak confirmed in Ajah, Lagos, linked to unlicensed vaccine administration
cc: Daily Post Ng
