The Digest:
Niger State Governor Umar Bago and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) are facing a lawsuit filed by SERAP and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) over alleged intimidation of Badeggi FM Radio, Minna, including threats to shut down the station.
Key Points:
- SERAP and NGE filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court, Lagos, seeking to protect Badeggi FM from ongoing intimidation and threats of closure by the Niger State governor and NBC.
- Governor Bago allegedly threatened to strip Badeggi FM of its license, demolish its premises, and profile its owner, Shuaibu Badeggi.
- The plaintiffs seek a declaration that NBC is legally obligated to protect broadcasting outlets from undue interference and threats.
- SERAP and NGE argue that the governor's actions violate freedom of expression, access to information, and media freedom.
- The suit seeks a perpetual injunction against further harassment, intimidation, and threats to Badeggi FM, along with a declaration that NBC's failure to act constitutes a breach of its statutory duty.
- The appellants contend that the allegations against Badeggi FM and its owner are vague and unsubstantiated, meant to silence the station.
The legal action aims to prevent further harassment of Badeggi FM, asserting the importance of media freedom and protecting the station from unlawful executive interference.
Sources: Premium Times, Channels TV, Vanguard
