The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have taken Niger State Governor Umar Bago and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to court over the ongoing intimidation of Badeggi FM Radio in Minna.
In a press statement issued by the SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the groups accused the NBC of failing to defend the station, which faces a threat of closure and licence revocation.
Recall that the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago accused the station of public incitement, allegations SERAP and NGE describe as vague and unfounded.
In the suit filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, the two groups are asking the court to determine whether the NBC is legally bound under the Constitution and the National Broadcasting Act to protect Badeggi FM from interference.
They are seeking a declaration that NBC must safeguard the station and other broadcasters from undue pressure by unauthorised persons or entities.
No date has been set for the hearing.