The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have filed a lawsuit against Niger State Governor Umar Bago and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), alleging intimidation and unlawful threats against Badeggi FM Radio, Minna.
The lawsuit, filed on Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos (suit number FHC/L/CS/1587/2025), follows Governor Bago’s directive to shut down the station and revoke its license over alleged incitement of public unrest. SERAP and NGE argue the move violates media freedom and constitutional rights to free expression and access to information.
In a joint statement, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, accused the NBC of failing to defend Badeggi FM against executive interference. The plaintiffs seek a court declaration affirming NBC’s legal obligation to protect broadcasters from unlawful threats, citing Section 22 of the Nigerian Constitution and Section 2(1)(t) of the NBC Act.
Among other reliefs, the suit demands a perpetual injunction restraining the governor and NBC from harassing or revoking the station’s license, or demolishing its premises.
“The media plays an essential role in upholding democracy. Silencing dissenting voices through vague security claims undermines both the Constitution and Nigeria’s human rights obligations,” the plaintiffs stated.
They also labeled the incitement allegations against Badeggi FM as unsubstantiated and politically motivated.
A date for the hearing has not yet been scheduled.
