NUJ, I-CSPJ Worried Over Invasion Of ABN TV Studio By Police Personnel During Live Programme

Abia State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), yesterday, condemned the invasion of the office/ studio of the Umuahia (Abia State) based online ABN TV/Radio, on Tuesday, to arrest a guest, Udensi Donald, during a live programme by police officers.

The council’s condemnation was sequel to the report made to it by the ABN TV/Radio management, who also complained of damaging some of its equipment during the invasion. The NUJ, in a statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Victor Ndukwe, and Adaeze Ralph-Igbokwe, described the development as uncalled for.

It said: “This invasion leaves a sour taste in the mouth and should be condemned by well-meaning Nigerians, given that the police operatives knew where they ought to hunt for their suspect given that the petition against him must have contained his address.”

The IPC’s Centre for Safety and Protection of Journalists (I-CSPJ) has also expressed deep concern and disapproval, following reports of the police invasion at ABN TV.

According to I-CSPJ’s field monitor, the intrusion took place at approximately 02:40 p.m. when police officers stormed the station, claiming to have a petition against Donald relating to a family matter.

The I-CSPJ, in a statement said despite pleas from the station staff to allow the programme to conclude before making the arrest, the officers insisted on acting during the live broadcast.