Nigeria’s minister of information, Muhammad Idris has reacted to the closure of Minna based Badeggi Radio 90.1 FM, on the order of state governor of Niger, Umar Bago.

Bago ordered the commissioner of police to seal off the radio station over alleged incitement of violence.

A statement by Bologi Ibrahim, the chief press secretary to the Niger governor said the daily activities of the radio station were unethical”.

“Governor Bago also accused the owner of the station of incitement of the people against the government and directed that the license of the radio station be revoked,” the statement reads in part.

Reacting in a statement on Saturday, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris’ special assistant for media said the ministry has noted concerns raised by stakeholders in the media industry over the governor’s directive.

Idris said the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has legal authority to suspend or revoke broadcast licenses.

“While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law,” he said.

“In light of this, the Ministry welcomes the decision of the Niger State Government to formally report the perceived unethical behavior of Badegi FM to the NBC for resolution.

He said the minister appeals to all parties to remain calm, assuring that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue in a fair and impartial manner.