The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the withdrawal of accreditation for journalists and media outlets covering the Presidential Villa. HURIWA condemned this move, calling it undemocratic and treacherous. They also expressed concern over the recent invasion of African Independent Television and Ray Power FM stations in Rivers State by suspected state government agents.
HURIWA, led by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, expressed shock that President Tinubu, who has a strong media background, selectively chose which media houses could cover the State House in Abuja, describing it as a disappointing irony. They emphasized that this decision is irrational, undemocratic, and unconstitutional, and it goes against the principles of a free press outlined in Nigeria’s 1999 constitution.
HURIWA also highlighted a related incident where the Rivers State Government shut down the operations of Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM in Port Harcourt. They called on the Minister of FCT to intervene and lift the ban on AIT in Rivers State, emphasizing that such actions are against the public interest and affect the livelihoods of employees in the region.
