By George Ozalla
According to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the closure of Badeggi Radio in Niger State by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago is a suppression of press freedom and an affront to democracy. The NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, described the governor’s decision as disappointing and a clear violation of the right to freedom of expression.
Dr. Ojukwu’s actions were taken without following due process, and the Commission urged the governor to unseal the radio station and allow it to resume full operations. The Commission also called on the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to carry out its statutory mandate without abuse.
The NHRC emphasized the importance of protecting journalists and media freedom, fostering a culture of tolerance, and supporting independent media. The Commission remains committed to promoting and protecting human rights in Nigeria and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
