The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has responded to the public outcry following the suspension of Badegi FM, a local radio station in Minna, Niger State. Many media professionals and observers had expressed concern about the shutdown.

Reports say that Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, gave the suspension order during a meeting with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Minna on August 1. The Minister of Information and National Orientation was also present at the meeting.

Governor Bago reportedly made the decision because he believed the station had been broadcasting content that was unethical and aimed at inciting the public against the state government.

In a statement released by the Minister’s media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the ministry said it takes note of the issues raised by the state government. However, it also reminded the public that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal power to suspend or cancel radio licenses in Nigeria.

The ministry stressed that broadcast regulation is the responsibility of the NBC, not state governments.