Buhari Govt Revokes Silverbird, AIT, Raypower, Rhythm FM, Others’ Licences

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has revoked the broadcast licences of Silverbird TV, AIT, Raypower FM, and Rhythm FM amongst others over their failure to renew broadcast licences.

Naija News reports that this was made known by the Director General of the NBC, Mallam Balarabe Shehu.

He also directed NBC state offices to liaise with security agencies to ensure the shut down of the operation of these stations within the next 24 hours.

Shehu stated that the licenses of about 52 television and radio stations was suspended over failure to pay federal licensing charges to the tune of N2.6 billion.

According to the NBC DG, the suspended stations were warned for several months to pay licensing costs for their operations but failed to comply.

He said: “After due consideration, the NBC hereby announces the revocation of the licenses of the under-listed stations and gives them 24 hours to shut down their operations.

“Our offices nationwide are hereby directed to collaborate with security agencies to ensure immediate compliance.”

Classic FM, Splash FM, Beat FM and MITV are among the stations suspended. About 24 state-run broadcasters are also among the outlets affected.

Naija News understands that AIT, Raypower FM, Silverbird Television and Rhythm FM are run by prominent opposition figures Raymond Dokpesi and Ben Murray-Bruce, respectively.