The Niger State Government has responded to allegations that the closure of Badeggi FM Radio Station, ordered by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, was politically driven.
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In a statement released on Wednesday, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Communication Media and Strategy, asserted that the decision was prompted by content in the station’s broadcasts that were deemed inciting.
During an APC stakeholders meeting at the Government House, Minna, last Friday, Governor Bago directed the closure of the privately-run radio station and revoked its license, claiming it was inciting the public against the government.
This directive has provoked significant backlash from various stakeholders in the media industry, particularly regarding the governor’s authority to shut down a media outlet.
Vatsa addressed comments made by the station’s General Manager, Aisha Badeggi, who suggested that the governor’s discomfort stemmed from an interview with Mallam Mohammed Mamman Nani, the former Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), where Nani critiqued the government’s performance.
Aisha challenged the governor to present concrete evidence of any incitement or unethical conduct by the station.
In response, Vatsa dismissed these claims as unfounded, stating that the governor is unafraid of any potential elections in 2027, citing his accomplishments as sufficient to secure re-election.
He emphasised that recent endorsements from APC stakeholders in the state indicate a strong position for the governor, asserting, “there is no vacancy in the government in 2027.”
He further highlighted the ongoing infrastructure development in Niger State, describing it as unprecedented since the state’s establishment and a testament to the governor’s effective governance.
Vatsa noted that the governor’s reputation as a “people’s governor,” alongside his electoral success since 2007, reflects his commitment and performance in public office.
While acknowledging the concerns surrounding the radio station’s closure, he conveyed that the government remains open to constructive criticism, which he believes is vital for addressing any gaps in governance.
“The governor is not a magician; he is a human being,” Vatsa concluded, emphasising the importance of dialogue and feedback in governance.
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