The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is speaking out against the recent closure of Badeggi 90.1 FM in Minna, a move they blame on Niger State Governor Umar Bago. The party views the shutdown as part of a disturbing trend of governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) overstepping their authority and undermining democratic principles.

In a statement, ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, strongly condemned Governor Bago’s decision, calling it a "brazen assault on press freedom" and a violation of the rule of law. Abdullahi said the governor's actions were reminiscent of a military dictatorship and highlighted a growing "dictatorial tendency" among APC governors, citing a similar incident where the Edo State governor declared a political opponent persona non-grata.

Abdullahi reminded Governor Bago that he was elected to serve the people and that fundamental freedoms, including freedom of speech, are protected by the Nigerian constitution. He emphasized that APC governors appear to be acting like emperors who need to be reminded of these democratic principles.

The ADC pointed out that if Badeggi FM had acted unethically, the appropriate body to handle the issue is the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), not the state governor. The party stressed that the NBC Act gives the NBC sole authority to sanction radio stations. By bypassing this legal process, the ADC argues that Governor Bago has shown a clear disregard for the very constitution he swore to uphold.

The party warned that allowing the shutdown to stand would set a dangerous precedent for press freedom in Nigeria. According to the ADC, it could lead to further suppression of media and a full-blown autocracy, starting with the silencing of voices and the seizing of microphones.

In response, the ADC is urging all Nigerians to resist this "creeping dictatorship." They demand that Governor Bago immediately reopen Badeggi FM and that a full, independent investigation be launched into the misuse of security forces. The party also called on the National Assembly to take action to strengthen the NBC's autonomy and protect broadcast regulation from political interference.