The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) has condemned “in no uncertain terms” the demolition of Fresh FM105.9 by the Oyo State Government.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mr John Momoh (OON), on Wednesday, BON said the station was pulled down and journalists thrown into the job market notwithstanding the fact that a case of alleged breach of the Oyo State Town Planning was before a court of competent jurisdiction.
“As an umbrella body of broadcast stations in the country, we find this action not only oppressive and high handed but a demonstration of flagrant muzzling of the media and press freedom which must be condemned by all civilized minds,” the statement read in part.
The partial demolition of the station, which is owned by music artiste Yinka Ayefele, on Sunday has been widely criticised.
The management of the station has also rejected the claim of the state government that the building contravened state laws.
In its reaction to the demolition, BON declared support for Mr Ayefele and called on the media in Nigeria and globally as well as all people of goodwill to condemn the action of the Oyo State government.
“BON stands with the Management and staff of Fresh FM and will support the proprietor of the station, Mr. Yinka Ayefele in demanding compensation from the State Government through any legitimate means necessary,” it said.
“The era of reckless assault on the media, especially by a democratically elected government is over and must be resisted wherever it rears its head.”
Read BON’s full statement below:
BROADCASTING ORGANISATIONS OF NIGERIA (BON) CONDEMNS THE DEMOLITION OF YINKA AYEFELE. RADIO STATION.
Abuja, 22nd August 2018
The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) condemns in no uncertain terms the demolition of Fresh FM105.9 by the government of Oyo State.
The station was pulled down and journalists thrown into the job market notwithstanding the fact that a case of alleged breach of the Oyo State Town Planning was before a court of competent jurisdiction.
As an umbrella body of broadcast stations in the country, we find this action not only oppressive and high handed but a demonstration of flagrant muzzling of the media and press freedom which must be condemned by all civilized minds. We ask the media in Nigeria, our international counterparts and all people of goodwill to stand and condemn the action of the government of Oyo State.
BON stands with the Management and staff of Fresh FM and will support the proprietor of the station, Mr. Yinka Ayefele, in demanding compensation from the State Government through any legitimate means necessary.
The era of reckless assault on the media, especially by a democratically elected government is over and must be resisted wherever it rears its head.
Mr. John Momoh (OON)
Chairman
Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON)
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