The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has strongly condemned the closure of Badeggi Radio Station by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, describing the move as a “blatant attack on press freedom and democracy in Nigeria.”
In a press release issued on Saturday and jointly signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the editors decried what they called “an act of censorship and intimidation,” warning that such actions undermine the pillars of democratic governance and the right to free expression.
“This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” the statement read.
The Guild referenced Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, both of which guarantee freedom of expression and press freedom. It criticised Governor Bago for acting outside his jurisdiction by unilaterally ordering the station’s closure, stressing that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the authority to sanction broadcasting outfits, and only after conducting a proper investigation into alleged misconduct.
“We are happy that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, has pointed this out. This should go beyond observing the anomaly. The federal government should order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station, while investigation is carried out,” the Guild said.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s past under military rule, the NGE cautioned against a return to arbitrary actions that stifle press freedom. “Government officials should know that we are in a democracy and therefore, the act of arbitrary order for the sealing off and closure of a radio station is unacceptable. Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago,” the editors warned.
The Guild acknowledged Governor Bago’s allegation that Badeggi Radio had incited violence, but insisted that such claims must be thoroughly investigated and proven before any punitive action is taken.
“Governor Bago’s allegation of incitement of violence by the radio station is a serious issue, which has to be investigated and proven before any action can be taken. We urge the media to operate under strict adherence to the code of ethics of journalism, with responsible conduct at the back of the minds of the professionals.”
While calling on the media to uphold ethical standards, the Guild stressed that citizens’ rights to access information must be protected. “We also call on the authorities to take measures to respect the rights of citizens to access information and express themselves freely. Badeggi Radio should be reopened while the investigation continues,” it stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom, the NGE concluded “The Guild reiterates that a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy and demands that governments at all levels respect and uphold this fundamental right.”
Chioma Kalu
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