Gov Alia vs David Mark: Abba Moro condemns closure of Joy FM by Benue State Government

Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, has strongly condemned the closure of Joy FM 96.5, Otukpo, by the Benue State government, describing it as an assault on press freedom and an unacceptable attempt to gag the media.

The senator’s position was made known in a statement released on Friday by his Media Aide, Mr. John Eche’Ofun.

In the statement, Moro criticized the “commando-style invasion and sealing off of Joy FM” by officials of the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS), accompanied by armed policemen. He described the forceful closure as undemocratic and unsuitable for a 21st-century society.

“This action is a clear attempt to silence the press, and it is unacceptable in any democratic setting,” Moro stated.

The senator emphasized that media houses must be allowed to operate freely, provided they remain within the boundaries of the law. He called for the immediate unsealing of the radio station, expressing solidarity with the management and staff of Joy FM during this challenging period.

“The freedom of the press is non-negotiable, and any attempt to undermine it will erode the democratic values we hold dear. I urge the Benue State government to reverse this action without delay,” the statement read.

IDOMA VOICE recalls that the Benue State government, on Thursday, shut down Joy FM, a radio station owned by former Senate President David Mark, citing alleged non-payment of levies. The action, however, has drawn widespread criticism from various quarters, including rights groups and media stakeholders.

Moro’s statement is the latest in a growing list of voices condemning the closure, with many calling it a violation of constitutional rights and a threat to democracy.