The Niger State Government has dismissed a report by the International Press Institute (IPI) alleging that Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago ordered the closure of Badeggi 90.1 FM Radio Station, describing the claim as inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, said “At no time was Badeggi FM Radio Station shut down.”
He explained that although the Governor had cautioned the station over programmes considered capable of heightening tensions amid the state’s security challenges—and even mentioned the possibility of a shutdown—the directive was never enforced.
“The radio station continued its operations without any interruption. The Governor’s stance was rooted in the need to prevent content that could jeopardise peace and public safety,” the statement added.
Ibrahim maintained that the claim that Governor Bago closed the station was false and urged the public to disregard what he described as misinformation. “It was mentioned but never enforced,” he reiterated.
He also highlighted Governor Bago’s longstanding cordial relationship with the media, noting that during his three terms in the House of Representatives, his engagement with journalists and the National Assembly Press Corps was consistently open, transparent, and cooperative—an approach he said the Governor has sustained in office.
The statement affirmed that Governor Bago remains committed to press freedom, responsible journalism, and ensuring a peaceful Niger State.
