Senator Obinna Ogba has dismissed claims that Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, influenced the suspension of the General Manager of Legacy FM, Mr. Godfrey Chikwere.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Chikwere, popularly known as “Baby Mouth” in Ebonyi social circles, was suspended on August 9 by Legacy FM for allegedly criticizing the governor during a live talk show.
The suspension sparked public debate, with some accusing Chikwere of disrespect by calling the governor a weak leader, while others defended his right to express his views.
Ogba, who owns the station and is a former senator representing Ebonyi North, addressed the issue on Monday in Abakaliki. He emphasized that the decision to suspend Chikwere was entirely internal and unrelated to his relationship with Governor Nwifuru.
“As the CEO of the station, I’ve repeatedly warned him about violating our code of conduct,” Ogba said. “I can no longer tolerate it. Chikwere needs to step aside.”
He strongly refuted suggestions that political pressure played a role in the decision.
“It’s insulting to say the governor directed the suspension. I founded the station before Nwifuru became governor,” Ogba stated.
Chikwere, however, denied making negative remarks about the governor and insisted he was acting professionally.
“I only shared my opinion, with no hidden agenda. I have the governor’s best interests at heart, but perhaps my comments were misunderstood,” he told NAN.
He also noted that his public posts were open to verification and lacked any personal bias.
Meanwhile, Legacy FM’s Programmes and Administration Manager, Mr. Chukwuma Onwe, criticized the suspension.
“Chikwere’s comments during the show were constructive and focused on allegations about the sale of government vehicles by some appointees,” Onwe said.
