The bid by the Niger State government to settle its legal dispute with privately owned Badeggi FM out of court has failed, forcing the presiding judge to step aside from the case.
The matter, filed on August 5, 2025, under suit number NSHC/M/0296/2025, came before Justice Mohammed Mohammed, a vacation judge of High Court Four in Minna.
At the previous sitting on August 25, counsel to the respondents, Jacob Johnson Usman (SAN), told the court that Governor Umar Bago and the state’s Attorney General had agreed to pursue an amicable resolution with the radio station, a position equally supported by the plaintiffs’ counsel. Both parties had been scheduled to report back on September 3.
However, during Wednesday’s hearing, Badeggi FM’s lawyer, Barrister Philip Emmanuel, informed the court that the negotiations had broken down. His colleague, Barrister Philip A.O, confirmed the failed talks but said other options for resolution were still open.
In response, Justice Mohammed recused himself, citing the end of the court vacation. He stated that the matter would be referred back to the Chief Judge of Niger State for reassignment.
The dispute stems from Governor Bago’s directive in August to shut down Badeggi FM over alleged incitement, an action that triggered widespread condemnation from media and civil society groups. The station, through its counsel, filed the suit seeking enforcement of its fundamental rights.
Separately, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have also filed a case against the Niger governor and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). They accused the government of intimidation and harassment of Badeggi FM and are seeking a perpetual injunction to restrain further threats, including revocation of the station’s licence.
The case now awaits reassignment by the Chief Judge for further hearing.
