Abuse of Power: LightRay! Media Calls for Ombudsman Intervention Over Governor’s Unlawful Radio Station Shutdown

LightRay! Media strongly condemns the actions of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State in shutting down Badeggi Radio Station without due process. This blatant abuse of power undermines the fundamental principles of democracy and press freedom.

Our Position:

• Due Process: We believe that the Governor’s actions were unlawful and that the power to sanction television and radio stations lies solely with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after a thorough investigation.
• Press Freedom: A free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy, and we urge governments at all levels to respect and uphold this fundamental right.
• Support from Federal Government: We call on the federal government to support the reopening of Badeggi Radio Station while investigations are carried out and to ensure that the rights of citizens to access information and express themselves freely are respected.

Our Concerns:

• Abuse of Power: The Governor’s actions demonstrate a clear abuse of power and a disregard for the rule of law.
• Chilling Effect: The shutdown of Badeggi Radio Station sends a chilling message to other media outlets and journalists, undermining their ability to report freely and hold those in power accountable.

Our Demands:

• Reopen Badeggi Radio: We demand that the federal government order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station while investigations are carried out.
• Respect for Press Freedom: We urge governments at all levels to respect and uphold the fundamental right to press freedom and to ensure that journalists can report freely without fear of reprisal.

LightRay! Media stands in solidarity with the Nigerian Guild of Editors and other media stakeholders in condemning the Governor’s actions and calling for the protection of press freedom in Nigeria.