IPI Flays Expulsion of Channels TV Journalists from A’Ibom Govt House

Okon Bassey in Uyo and Wale Igbintade in Lagos

The International Press Institute (IPI) has condemned the expulsion of a Channels Television’s correspondent,  Chris Moffat, and cameraman, Kufre Ikpe, from the Akwa Ibom State Government House, following orders from the state government.

IPI described the action as a blatant attack on press freedom and a violation of the 1999 Constitution.

The expulsion reportedly followed the airing of a leaked video by Channels Television, in which Governor Umo Eno confirmed his imminent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement jointly signed by IPI Legal Adviser and Advocacy Committee Chair, Tobi Soniyi, and the Committee’s Secretary, Ochiaka Ugwu, the institute demanded the immediate recall of the expelled journalists and called on Eno to respect constitutional guarantees of press freedom.

The statement partly read: “The state government’s reckless action is alarming. These journalists are experienced professionals with a deep knowledge of government affairs. No journalist should face such humiliating treatment for simply doing their job. We will continue to support impartial reportage, no matter the situation.”

IPI further stated that the expulsion violates Chapter 22 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the press to hold the government accountable.

Expressing disappointment in Eno’s conduct, IPI said: “It is especially distressing that Governor Umo Eno, previously considered media-friendly, could act in such an anti-democratic manner. Independent journalism, press freedom, and unbiased reporting are the lifeblood of democracy.”

IPI warned that failure to reverse the expulsion would only worsen the embarrassment caused by the incident.

Sources within the Akwa Ibom Government House confirmed that the journalists’ expulsion was directly linked to the viral video aired by Channels Television over the weekend.

In the video, the governor, addressing members of his cabinet, stated: “It’s no longer news that I am moving. If you don’t know, I don’t know what else you know. I am told some of you are saying you won’t come. You are free, absolutely free not to join me, but you won’t remain in my cabinet.

“Be prepared to resign the day I announce I’m moving. You are an appointee, and your loyalty is to me. You can’t be in my cabinet and play anti-party. It’s not a threat; it’s a fact. I won’t beg you to come; I shouldn’t have to.”

While Channels Television correspondent, Moffat could not be reached for comment, a Government House source, speaking anonymously, confirmed the incident. 

The source said: “Yes, it’s true. The expulsion is linked to the video that started circulating on Friday.”