There was confusion at the Delta State House of Assembly on Wednesday as security operatives stopped several journalists from covering Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s address to lawmakers, sparking outrage and questions over transparency in governance.
The affected journalists, representing leading national newspapers and online platforms, including PUNCH, Guardian, Tribune, ThisDay, Champion, New Telegraph, Leadership, and Emerald Online, were reportedly denied entry into the Assembly complex by police officers stationed at the gate.
According to reports, the journalists arrived as early as 9:30am to cover the governor’s annual “State of the State” address but were blocked at the entrance, even after presenting valid identity cards.
The officer in charge of the gate, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Saviour David, said he was acting on direct instructions from the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Guwor Emomotimi.
“The order is from the Speaker and the authority. If you like, call anybody, nobody will answer you,” ASP David reportedly told the journalists, while allowing access to other individuals, including Government House staff and select members of the public.
Attempts by some police officers to intervene on behalf of the journalists were ignored, as the gate commander remained firm on his directive.
The action drew condemnation from media professionals and civil society observers, who described the move as a clampdown on press freedom and a breach of democratic norms.
A senior government official, who later arrived at the scene, expressed dismay over the situation and blamed the security team for acting “overzealously.” The official clarified that the order to bar journalists did not come from the governor.
“No, no, it is overzealous action not allowing journalists into the Assembly complex,” the official said. “He could have allowed you people first into the premises. The chamber might not be necessary because the governor might have started his address. The order did not come from the governor.”
Despite the clarification, many journalists remained locked out throughout the governor’s speech, which is usually a major annual event where the state’s executive outlines achievements and plans for the year ahead.
The incident has sparked debates about the growing trend of restricting media access to public functions and institutions. Press unions and rights groups are expected to respond with formal statements in the coming days.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who assumed office in May 2023, has previously stated his commitment to openness and engagement with the media. However, Wednesday’s development casts doubt on those promises and raises concerns over the role of legislative leadership in ensuring media freedom.
At the time of filing this report, neither the Speaker nor the Assembly’s media office had issued an official statement on the matter.
