An attempt to settle the legal dispute between the Niger State government and Badeggi FM radio station outside the courtroom has failed, forcing the case back into the judicial process.
The negotiation effort was initiated by the Niger State government after its counsel, Jacob Johnson Usman SAN, informed the court (case number NSHC/M/0296/2025) on August 5, 2025, that both sides were considering an amicable resolution. The court, presided over by Justice Mohammed Mohammed, granted time for discussions and adjourned proceedings until September 3, 2025.
Talks Collapse
At the resumed sitting on September 3, Badeggi FM’s counsel, Philip Emmanuel, disclosed that the peace talks had collapsed.
“My Lord, it’s unfortunate that the out-of-court settlement as requested in the last sitting has failed,” Emmanuel told the court.
Another lawyer representing the plaintiffs, Philip A.O., also confirmed the breakdown of talks but noted that further options for settlement were still being considered.
Judge Steps Aside
Following the collapse of negotiations, Justice Mohammed Mohammed, serving as a vacation judge at Minna High Court 4, recused himself from handling the matter further. He directed that the case file be returned to the Chief Judge of Niger State for reassignment. The case now remains adjourned indefinitely pending new directives from the Chief Judge.
This latest development marks a setback in efforts to resolve the dispute between Badeggi FM and the state government outside of the courtroom.
Jamflash will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as they unfold.
