By COLLINS YAKUBU-HAMMER

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has called for calm over the suspension of the operations of Badegi FM, a radio station in Minna, Niger.

This is contained in a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim on Saturday in Abuja.

Idris noted the concerns raised by various stakeholders in the media industry regarding the recent directive by the Niger Government suspending the operations of the FM station.

According to reports, Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger had issued the directive during an expanded state APC caucus meeting in Minna on Aug. 1, citing allegations of unethical broadcasting and incitement by the station.

While acknowledging the concerns raised, the minister, however, noted that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law.

“In the light of this, the minister welcomes the decision of the Niger government to formally report the perceived ‘unethical behavior’ by Badegi FM to the NBC, ” the statement said.

Idris appealed to all parties to remain calm, assuring them that the NBC has the necessary mechanisms to resolve the issue In a fair and impartial manner. (NAN)