Hon. Philip Agbese, the honourable member representing Ado/ Okpokwu/ Ogbadibo Federal Constituency strongly condemns the unwarranted closure of Joy FM Radio Station, Otukpo, by the Benue State Government. He said the brazen attack on the press is a disturbing trend under the Alia administration, which threatens the very fabric of our democracy.
Agbese said the commando-style invasion of the station by armed policemen, led by the Chairman of Benue Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) is a gross abuse of power. The rough handling of staff on duty and the forced termination of a live broadcast at gunpoint are unacceptable.
Joy FM has been a vital source of information, education, and entertainment for the people of Benue State, providing employment opportunities for young people and contributing to the state’s economic growth.
The closure, therefore, is a devastating blow to Benue people, particularly the poor and vulnerable who rely on the station as their lifeline. Joy FM is more than just a radio station – it is the oxygen that flows through the ears of the poor in both challenging and pleasant times, providing them with vital information, education, and entertainment. Its absence will be deeply felt, leaving a gaping void in the lives of those who depend on it for news, guidance, and comfort.
We are reliably informed that this is just the beginning of a broader crackdown on democratic institutions in Benue. If this trend continues, we fear that soon, our people will not be allowed to worship God in their churches, mosques, or other places of worship. Gatherings of families, friends, and communities will be restricted, and the very fabric of our society will be torn apart.
Equally worrisome is the deafening silence of some Benue South individuals who have inexplicably turned collaborators in this act, abandoning their moral obligation to speak truth to power. Their complicity is a betrayal of the trust reposed in them by our people. We, therefore, urge the Alia administration to desist from this path and respect the fundamental rights of citizens.
As a representative of the people, Agbese stands in solidarity with the management and staff of Joy FM and demand that the Benue State Government immediately reverses its decision and allows the station to resume operations. The people have a right to know, to hear and be heard and the Enone Servant will continue to speak truth to power.