Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has addressed reports regarding the removal of Channels Television's correspondent, Chris Mofatt, and his cameraman from the Government House Uyo Press Corps, stating the action was taken in good faith rather than as punishment.
The governor had reportedly ordered the eviction of the Channels Television crew over a trending video about his defection plans. However, Governor Eno has now clarified that the crew was not evicted but rather reassigned as part of standard protocol.
"I think it's within the purview of the Chief Press Secretary to change correspondents within the Government House," Governor Eno explained. "It is practised all over the world. If you have served at a post for up to 10 years and the CPS decides to ask for a replacement, that is not a fight."
The governor emphasized that such decisions fall under the Chief Press Secretary's responsibilities and don't necessarily require his direct involvement. "It is within the prerogative of his office. The governor does not even have to know. So there is no problem. This afternoon, Channels is here beaming us live. We work with all media houses," he added.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration's recognition of the media's importance in nation-building, pledging to continue working with media organizations as valued partners.
The controversy stems from a video where the governor reportedly announced plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Lawyer and activist Inebehe Effiong expressed surprise at the governor's reaction, noting that Channels TV could not have covered the meeting without an invitation.
The incident has drawn attention to the relationship between government officials and media organizations in Akwa Ibom State, with observers watching closely how this situation develops in the coming days.
