SERAP, NGE sue Niger Gov, NBC over Badeggi FM.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have filed a lawsuit against Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over the intimidation of the Minna-based radio station, Badeggi FM. 

The lawsuit follows Governor Bago's directive to security operatives to seal Badeggi FM, citing allegations of inciting violence and unethical activities, but SERAP and NGE have argued that these allegations are vague and unsubstantiated, and the governor's actions constitute a breach of the station's rights.

A statement jointly signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, and the NGE’s General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, revealed that the plaintiffs, in the suit filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos, are claiming that the governor's threats to shut down the station, revoke its license, and demolish its premises are unlawful and violate the rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and media freedom.

SERAP and NGE are seeking declarations that the NBC has a duty to protect Badeggi FM and other broadcasting outlets from undue interference and that the governor's actions are unlawful. 

They are also seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining the governor and NBC from harassing or threatening to shut down Badeggi FM or revoke its license.

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