IPI Condemns Expulsion Of Channels TV Crew From Akwa Ibom Govt House
….Wants them recalled
From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The International Press Institute (IPI) has strongly condemned the expulsion of Channels TV journalists from the Akwa Ibom State Government House, calling for their immediate recall.
The journalists were expelled following a video clip aired on Channels TV, featuring Governor Umo Eno’s comments on his potential defection from the PDP to the APC.
IPI described the state government’s action as a direct attack on the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.
The organization’s officials, Tobi Soniyi and Ochiaka Ugwu, argued that the expulsion constitutes a gross violation of Section 22 of Chapter 2 of the constitution.
IPI has called on Governor Umo Eno to immediately reverse the expulsion and uphold the principles of independent journalism, press freedom, and unbiased reportage.
The organization emphasized that these principles are essential to democracy and that the government’s actions could undermine the accountability and transparency of its administration.
IPI expressed support for the expelled journalists, describing them as experienced media personnel who were simply doing their job. The organization pledged to continue promoting impartial reportage, even in challenging situations
