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HURIWA Condemns Benue Government over Closure of Joy FM

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Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the forceful invasion and closure of Joy FM 96.5, Otukpo, by the Benue State Government, calling it a brazen assault on press freedom and democracy.

HURIWA Condemns Benue Government over Closure of Joy FM

The rights group described the armed invasion by security operatives as a clear case of state-sponsored thuggery and intimidation against the media, warning that such dictatorial actions could plunge Nigeria into a dangerous era of media suppression.

According to reports, a team of heavily armed policemen stormed the radio station in two trucks, allegedly led by Mr. Sunday Odagba, chairman of the Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS), and Mr. Ikwue Ikwue of the State Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Otukpo Zone. Staff members were reportedly assaulted, and a journalist reading the 1 pm network news bulletin was forced at gunpoint to halt the broadcast.

Reacting to the incident, HURIWA stated that the use of armed policemen to shut down a media house under the guise of enforcing tax collection is not only excessive but also a violation of constitutional provisions that guarantee freedom of the press.

The association expressed outrage that such an action could take place in a democratic setting and called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to immediately order the reopening of the station while holding those responsible for the unlawful attack accountable.

“This is a disgraceful and unacceptable act of intimidation against a legitimate media organization.

“The invasion of Joy FM by armed policemen in a commando-style operation is a calculated attempt to silence the press and instill fear in journalists who dare to report freely. This is state-sponsored thuggery, and we will not tolerate it.

“The Benue State Government must explain why a tax enforcement exercise required the use of live ammunition, gun-wielding security operatives, and the physical assault of journalists,” HURIWA declared.

The rights group emphasized that no government has the authority to shut down a media house arbitrarily, especially without due process and adequate notice.

It noted that if Joy FM was owing any statutory levies, proper legal procedures should have been followed to address the matter, instead of resorting to armed intimidation.

“We are particularly disturbed by reports that the station was not even aware of any outstanding payments before this barbaric action.

“The claim that the station owed N150,000 for a business premises levy is laughable and only exposes the political motives behind this action.

“If indeed Joy FM had defaulted in any payment, was the only solution to storm the station with heavily armed policemen as if chasing terrorists?

“This is an outrageous abuse of power and must not be swept under the carpet,” HURIWA said.

HURIWA further called on the Nigeria Police to investigate the illegal use of its personnel in what appears to be a politically motivated attempt to intimidate the press.

It questioned how a state government was able to deploy a large number of armed operatives for a mere tax enforcement drive, warning that if this pattern is allowed to continue, no media organization in Nigeria will be safe from government persecution.

“This incident reflects the worsening state of press freedom in Nigeria. The police must explain how they allowed themselves to be used in such an oppressive manner.

“Nigeria is not a military dictatorship, yet journalists are now being forced to stop their broadcasts at gunpoint. If we do not resist this now, other state governments will copy this lawlessness and begin shutting down media houses that expose their failures,” HURIWA warned.

The association reiterated its call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to intervene immediately and ensure that Joy FM resumes operations without any further harassment.

It also urged media practitioners, civil society groups, and international human rights organizations to take a firm stand against this brazen attack on press freedom.

“If the government of Benue State does not reverse this unconstitutional act and reopen Joy FM immediately, HURIWA will mobilize civil society groups, legal experts, and concerned citizens to challenge this abuse in court.

“We will also petition international press freedom organizations to take up this case and expose the increasing clampdown on the media in Nigeria. The time to act is now,” the group declared.

HURIWA reminded the Benue State Government that a free press is the cornerstone of democracy and that attempts to gag the media will only strengthen public resistance.

The association vowed to continue monitoring developments surrounding this case and ensure that those behind this abuse of power are held accountable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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KongaFM 103.7 Garners Thousands of Listeners, Gets Rave Reviews

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KongaFM 103.7, the 24/7 innovative hit music and commerce radio station, has taken the airwaves by storm since its recent launch.

KongaFM 103.7 Garners Thousands of Listeners, Gets Rave Reviews

Operating on terrestrial frequencies in Lagos on 103.7 and streaming online for listeners globally at www.kongafm.com, KongaFM has quickly become a favourite among audiences.

The radio station blends entertainment, inspiration, and commerce in a way that is both refreshing and impactful.

Despite being in its test run phase, the station has already garnered thousands of listeners, with many praising its professionalism, unique programming, and commitment to delivering value.

The station kicked off with an exciting mix of hit music, motivational content, and commercial activities, setting itself apart as a trailblazer in the radio industry.

True to its promise, KongaFM has been inspiring listeners while offering exclusive deals and opportunities.

One of the standout features of the station is its daily exclusive deals segment, broadcast from 7:00 to 8:00 AM.

Listeners have lauded the genuineness of these deals, with many expressing their satisfaction with the quality and affordability of the products promoted.

Feedback from listeners has been overwhelmingly positive. During a recent show on Thursday afternoon, the station was inundated with calls from enthusiastic listeners eager to share their thoughts.

While not all calls could be taken, the feedback received was nothing short of astounding, especially for a newcomer in the radio industry.

One listener, Grace Yusuf, mentioned how the station has positively impacted her daily routine.

“KongaFM is my go-to station every morning while commuting to work. The gospel music is great, while other content and inspiring discussions keep me motivated throughout the day,” she said.

Tunde Obaposh, currently pursuing his PhD in Robotics in Kansas, shared his experience streaming Konga FM online.

“I believe KongaFM is going to redefine the standard in the radio space. I love how they incorporate AI into their broadcasts, making the experience seamless and engaging,” he noted.

Another enthusiastic listener, Michael Arinze, described KongaFM as “a breath of fresh air in the radio space.

They’ve not only delivered on their promise of hit music but have also created a platform where businesses can thrive. I’ve already taken advantage of two deals they promoted, and I can confirm they’re genuine.”

What truly sets KongaFM apart is its commitment to inspiring and motivating its audience. From the best gospel hits from 5:00 – 7:00 AM to thought-provoking discussions and hit music throughout the day, the station has created a unique listening experience that resonates with a wide range of audiences.

As the station continues gaining momentum, one thing remains certain — KongaFM 103.7 has carved a niche for itself in the industry.

With a unique blend of entertainment, business empowerment, and audience engagement, it is no surprise that many have hailed it as a game-changer in the Nigerian radio landscape. For those yet to tune in, KongaFM promises an exciting and rewarding experience.

 

 


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TikTok Deletes over 2m Videos in Nigeria for Policy Violations

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TikTok, social media giant, has reaffirmed its commitment to online safety by removing more than two million videos in Nigeria between July and September 2024 for violating its Community Guidelines.

TikTok Deletes over 2m Videos in Nigeria for Policy Violations

According to its Q3 Community Guidelines Enforcement Report, 99.1 percent of these videos were taken down within 24 hours of being posted.

With millions of videos uploaded daily by its over one billion users worldwide, TikTok has continued to improve its content moderation efforts through advanced technology.

The platform’s proactive detection rate has now reached 98.2 percent globally, allowing it to identify and remove harmful content before it reaches viewers.

 

Between July and September 2024, TikTok removed over 147 million videos worldwide, with 118 million taken down through automation.

In Nigeria, 92.1 percent of all removed videos were taken down before any user reported them, reflecting the platform’s proactive moderation strategy.

The report highlights the most common policy violations that led to content removal in Nigeria.

These include sensitive and mature themes, where 99.4 percent of flagged videos were removed before any user report.

Content related to regulated goods and commercial activities, including scams and the illegal sale of items such as firearms or explosives, accounted for 99.1 percent of removals before user reports.

Additionally, content categorized under mental and behavioral health, which could negatively impact users, particularly younger audiences, saw a 99.9 percent removal rate before any user reports.

TikTok maintains that its mission to inspire creativity and bring joy is built on a foundation of user safety and content integrity.

The platform continues to invest in Trust and Safety professionals who work alongside advanced technology to enforce its Community Guidelines, Terms of Service, and Advertising Policies.

By prioritising a positive and secure digital space, TikTok aims to ensure that users can create, connect, and be entertained without exposure to harmful content.

 


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Nigeria’s Brightest Young Minds to Compete in Spelling Bee Finals

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The highly anticipated finals of the Spellingbee in Nigeria (SpIN) will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the U.S. Consulate’s Residence in Lagos.

This milestone event will see 64 outstanding finalists from Abuja, Lagos, Osun, and Taraba States competing for the championship title, marking a historic moment as Nigeria makes its debut in the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee, USA.

The winner of SpIN ’25 National Finals receives an all-expense-paid trip to represent Nigeria at the 100th edition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States, a centennial celebration of academic excellence that has shaped young minds for generations.

Beyond crowning a champion, the National Finals underscores SpIN’s core mission: cultivating academic excellence, linguistic mastery, and a commitment to fostering educational and leadership opportunities for young learners.

Speaking on the upcoming event, Eugenia Tachie-Menson, Convener of Spelling Bee in Nigeria, an affiliate of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, USA, emphasized the competition’s transformative impact on young learners.

“This competition is more than just spelling—it builds confidence, public speaking skills, and critical thinking, preparing students for global opportunities.

“We are thrilled by the enthusiasm it has received and the doors it will open for Nigeria’s brightest young minds.”

The event, which is set to attract members of the diplomatic corps, C-Suite executives, high net worth parents and educational leaders, is made possible through the support of key partners: Indomie Noodles (Title Sponsor), Checkers Custard (Co-Sponsor), and partnerships with Lucid Education Initiative, the U.S. Consul-General Lagos, the American Business Council of Nigeria, the Rotary Club of VI East, and AT3 Resources – The Muvmnt Agency (PR Partner).

Spellingbee in Nigeria is a prestigious competition affiliated with the globally renowned Scripps National Spelling Bee, USA. It is dedicated to promoting literacy, vocabulary development, and critical thinking among Nigerian students, equipping them with skills to compete on a global stage.


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