The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria has condemned the demolition of the building housing Fresh FM in Ibadan by the Oyo State Government.
The condemnation was contained in a statement by the Chairman of BON, John Momoh, on Thursday.
Momoh in the statement said BON will stand by the owner of Fresh FM, Yinka Ayefele, in the pursuit of justice on the demolition carried out by the Oyo State Government and justified by the State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi.
The statement reads: “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 not withstanding 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 where ever it rears its head.”