Nigerian Clandestines Soon to be Silenced?
By Nick Grace
July 10, 1998
Plagued by rivalry, financial difficulties, and a general lack of interest Nigerian clandestines may soon be a thing of the past. But the nail in the coffin may very well turn out to be overtures by the Hausa-dominated military.
Military leaders known as the Provisional Ruling Council have spent the last couple of days debating the future role they will play in a civil-democratic society.
Current strongman General Abdulsalam Abubakar, who replaced General Sani Abacha - who most Nigerians say died under suspicious circumstances - has recently signalled the possible end of military-rule by releasing many political prisoners. Incidentally, news reports indicate Abubakar is building close ties to the United States and other Western powers, who are sending the message that change needs to take place.
What will pass is uncertain.
Trends in clandestine broadcasting to Nigeria have been extremely dynamic ever since Radio Democrat International, now called Radio Kudirat, took to the airwaves two years ago. Radio New Nigeria recently left that airwaves to rename itself the Save Nigeria Broadcasting Service. Radio NADECO signed off for good when their programs, according to Hans Johnson, were not being produced and when their funding dried up. Ogene Ndigbo Radio, a new entry to the airwaves, postponed its premier broadcast following technical difficulties.
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