IPI Demands Immediate Recall Of Channels TV Crew Expelled From Akwa-Ibom Govt. House
The International Press Institute (IPI), has described the Akwa Ibom State Government action in expelling Channels Television journalists from the State Government House on the orders of Governor Umo Eno as reckless and alarming.
The IPI therefore demanded the immediate recall of the Channels TV journalists, stressing that the journalists are experienced media personnel with a deep knowledge of government activities.
The Channel TV Correspondent and Cameraman were expelled following a video clip aired on Channels TV in which Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State was seen confirming his imminent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
A statement by Tobi Soniyi, IPI Legal Adviser & Chairman Advocacy Committee and Ochiaka Ugwu Secretary, IPI Advocacy Committee, said that no journalist should be made to face this kind of humiliating treatment simply for doing their job.
The IPI assured that it would continue to support and encourage impartial reportage no matter the situation.
IPI said; “We strongly condemn the Akwa Ibom State Government’s action, which is a direct attack on the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.
“The state government’s action is also a gross violation of SECTION 22 of CHAPTER 2 of the constitution, which provides that “The press, radio, television and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people”.
IPI further said that it is especially distressing and disappointing that Governor Umo Eno, considered a media-friendly state executive, could behave in this unacceptable and anti-democratic manner.
“We hereby remind him that independent journalism, press freedom and unbiased reportage are essential to democracy. We call on the governor to immediately reverse the expulsion and save his government from further embarrassment,” it stressed.
