SERAP, Editors Drag Niger Governor to Court Over Badeggi FM Threat

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have taken legal action against Niger State Governor Umar Bago over his alleged threats to shut down Badeggi FM Radio.

Filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos on August 8, 2025 (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1587/2025), the case seeks a perpetual injunction stopping the governor and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from intimidating the station, revoking its licence, demolishing its premises, or profiling its owner.

SERAP and NGE argued that the NBC has a constitutional and statutory duty to protect Badeggi FM and other broadcasters from arbitrary political interference. They accused Governor Bago of weaponising the NBC to silence dissent, describing allegations of “inciting violence” against the station as vague and unfounded.

According to the plaintiffs, the threats violate constitutional rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and media independence. They warned that targeting Badeggi FM could create a chilling effect for journalists nationwide.

The dispute began when Governor Bago accused the privately owned station of broadcasting content aimed at inciting the public against his administration, calling it unprofessional and harmful to his New Niger Development Agenda. He subsequently ordered the station’s licence revoked.

SERAP and NGE maintain the move is an unlawful attempt to muzzle the press under the guise of security concerns.