From Yakubu Mustapha Minna
Various stakeholders in the media industry in the country have dared the Niger state governor Mohammed Umar Bago over his directive to close down a private radio station (Badeggi Radio Minna 90.1FM) alleging incitement programme against government.
Governor Bago known for his threats, harassment and intimidation of media and its practitioners in the state has taken another dimension by ordering the closure of the station at an expanded APC stakeholders meeting in government house Minna.
The Governor’s action has led to reactions and condemnations across the nation by different media stakeholders who declared that it is only the sole mandate of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) that has the powers constitutionally to close down radio or television station in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ Niger State Council said the State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago should tread with caution and in accordance with democratic tenets in issuing orders.
The union in a statement therefore urged the immediate withdrawal of the order in the interest of democracy, invariably press freedom.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the directive issued by the Governor of Niger State.
According to a statement issued by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, citing on Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), reaffirmed that freedom of expression including the right to own and operate media is a guaranteed right, not a privilege.
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