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Radio Nigeria Harmony 103.5 FM, situated in Idofian within the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state, North Central Nigeria, has recently become the target of a brazen attack. A gang of four suspected hoodlums desecrated the station, demolishing its fortified cables and looting valuable belongings.

Under the cover of darkness, at the break of dawn on Tuesday (4 am), the culprits arrived on two motorbikes and swiftly carried out their malicious assault. Their ruthless actions included overpowering the night guard, subjecting him to a brutal beating, and subsequently stealing the personal phones of the on-duty officers.

As a result of the unprecedented damage sustained from the heinous act, the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)-owned FM frequency has been forced to cease operations.

Hajia Binta Abubakar Mora, the Assistant Director for the Programme, stood in for the General Manager of the station and expressed her dismay regarding the incident. She emphasized that this attack poses a significant threat to the broadcasting industry in Nigeria.

Addressing journalists during a guided tour of the premises, Mora lamented, “This brazen attack is an immense threat to the entire broadcasting sector in Nigeria. Similar incidents have previously occurred at our sister stations in Lokoja (Kogi State) and Lafia (Nassarawa State). Currently, we are unable to broadcast, and the damage inflicted upon our armored cables is quite expensive to repair. This financial burden has now become a management concern,“

She further shared, “However, the safety and well-being of our staff who were present during the attack hold far greater value than the material possessions that were destroyed. Thankfully, no further harm was inflicted upon them. We express our gratitude to the Almighty for ensuring their safety,“

Mora expressed concern about the location of the station and called upon the Nigerian government for assistance in resuming operations. She stressed the necessity to improve the working environment, making it safer and more conducive for the dedicated personnel. The station’s isolated location in an area of total darkness raises concerns for the well-being of employees, particularly during the evening hours.

Mora urged, “Here at Harmony FM, our current location is isolated and unfriendly. The nearby orphanage building is even invisible from our premises. The Nigerian government must step in and fortify our security measures to ensure our protection. This is also an opportune moment to reinforce security measures for all media organizations owned by FRCN, especially since a majority of them are situated outside state capitals. With heightened security and consistent electricity supply, we can combat criminal activities effectively,“

Wasiu Zubair, the night guard who endured the distressing incident, recounted his ordeal. He explained, “When the vandals arrived around 2:30 a.m., they interrogated me in the Hausa language, inquiring about the number of personnel present. Proceeding to rob me of my phone, they proceeded to tie me up and subject me to further physical assault,“

It is imperative that immediate action is taken to restore the damaged infrastructure and enhance security measures, not only for the station but across all Nigerian media organizations. The incident serves as a chilling reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those who tirelessly dedicate themselves to providing the public with vital information and entertainment.

May the day come when the light of justice and security prevails over the darkness of criminal intentions.