The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Niger State Governor Umar Bago, demanding the reversal of his decision to revoke the broadcasting license of Badeggi FM radio station. The organisation warned that failure to comply would result in legal action.

 

In an open letter dated August 2, 2025, signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the group called on the governor to reinstate the station’s license, withdraw threats to demolish its premises, and end what it described as a crackdown on media freedom and freedom of expression in the state.

 

SERAP also urged Governor Bago to publicly guarantee the safety and rights of the station’s owner, Shuaibu Badeggi, and staff members, calling for an end to what it labeled intimidation and harassment.

 

The organisation criticised the use of unsubstantiated allegations of incitement against the station, stating that such claims appeared to be aimed at silencing dissenting voices. It warned that targeting critical media outlets under vague national security claims violates Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and international human rights obligations.

 

“Shutting down Badeggi FM, threatening to demolish its premises, and profiling its owner not only undermines constitutional freedoms but also poses a chilling effect on press freedom nationwide,” the letter read.

 

SERAP cautioned that using the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) or security agencies to suppress media independence could harm public discourse, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

It insisted that any restrictions on freedom of expression must be clearly defined by law, serve a legitimate objective, and be necessary in a democratic society—none of which, the group argued, applied to the current actions by the Niger State government.

 

“If we do not hear from you within 48 hours, we will initiate appropriate legal proceedings to compel compliance in the public interest,” SERAP warned.

 

The group concluded that media outlets must be free to report and comment on matters of public interest without fear of reprisals, and called on Governor Bago to uphold his constitutional duty to protect democratic freedoms in Niger State.