Legacy FM, a private radio station in Ebonyi State, has lifted the suspension of its acting General Manager, Odoh Chikwere, just days after he was disciplined for allegedly criticizing Governor Francis Nwifuru.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, follows intense public scrutiny and internal review, marking a swift reversal of the station’s earlier stance.
Chikwere’s suspension was initially reported on August 10, 2025, after he allegedly made critical remarks about Governor Nwifuru’s administration both on air and via social media posts on August 8.
According to a statement from Legacy FM’s management, Chikwere was suspended for “unruly behaviour” and violating the station’s code of conduct.
A Facebook post by Chikwere, cited by Channels Television, accused the administration of poor communication, underperformance by appointees, and a lack of clear policy direction, urging the governor to “step on toes to achieve results.”
The post reportedly sparked the controversy, with the state government, through Chief Press Secretary Monday Uzor, dismissing the criticisms as “unfounded and baseless” while highlighting support provided to Legacy FM, including a new SUV, a transformer, and road construction.
The lifting of Chikwere’s suspension comes amid a broader context of disciplinary actions in Ebonyi State.
On July 28, 2025, Governor Nwifuru suspended 87 government officials, including 25 commissioners and 62 aides, for failing to attend a state function, later revealed to be the burial of a close associate’s mother.
The suspensions, which drew significant criticism for being excessive, were largely lifted on August 5, with 81 officials reinstated. The rapid reversal of Chikwere’s suspension mirrors this pattern, suggesting a response to public and internal pressure.
Legacy FM’s management did not provide detailed reasons for lifting Chikwere’s suspension but stated that he is to resume duties immediately, handing over any company property to the next senior officer during the interim period.
The reinstatement of Chikwere raises questions about the balance between free speech and professional conduct in Ebonyi’s media landscape.
For now, Chikwere’s return to Legacy FM closes a brief but contentious chapter, with the station and its listeners awaiting clarity on how this episode will shape its future operations.
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