The International Press Institute (IPI) has called on Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, to reverse the decision to expel a Channels Television reporter and cameraman from the state’s Government House in Uyo.
The media professionals were reportedly thrown out following the airing of a video clip in which Governor Eno confirmed his planned defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a joint statement released on Sunday by Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser and Chairman of IPI’s Advocacy Committee, and Ochiaka Ugwu, Secretary of the Committee, the organisation described the expulsion as an alarming and reckless action by the state government.
According to the IPI, the journalists were only doing their constitutional duty and should not have been punished for reporting verified news. “No journalist should be made to face this kind of humiliating treatment simply for doing their job,” the statement read.
The group warned that the move by the state government was a clear attack on press freedom and a violation of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, particularly Section 22 of Chapter 2, which mandates the press to hold the government accountable to the people.
“It is disappointing that Governor Umo Eno, who has previously been seen as media-friendly, would act in such an unacceptable and undemocratic manner,” IPI said. “We remind him that independent journalism and press freedom are pillars of democracy, and suppressing them only leads to public distrust and further embarrassment for any administration.”
IPI called on Governor Eno to immediately recall the Channels TV crew and offer assurances that media professionals will continue to be granted full access to cover government activities without fear or favour.
The controversial video that sparked the issue featured Governor Eno speaking to his cabinet, where he told officials to resign if they would not join him in defecting to the APC. “You are free not to join me,” he said, “but you won’t be in my State Executive Council. Prepare to resign the day I announce that I am moving.”
This strong-arm approach by the governor has raised concerns not just about political loyalty but also about the shrinking space for press freedom in the state. Media rights groups fear that if this incident is not addressed, it could set a dangerous precedent for future treatment of journalists in the country.
The IPI concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to protecting press freedom in Nigeria and supporting all journalists facing threats or suppression in the course of their duties.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has yet to officially respond to the IPI’s call or issue a formal statement regarding the expulsion of the journalists.
