Governor Eno’s Channels TV Controversy: Eviction or Strategic Shake-Up?
In a move that has stirred controversy and raised eyebrows across Nigeria’s media landscape, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has finally addressed the uproar surrounding the sudden removal of Channels TV correspondent, Chris Mofatt, and his cameraman from the Government House press corps.
The incident, which many interpreted as a retaliatory eviction, followed the airing of a now-viral video in which Governor Eno allegedly hinted at defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The video, broadcast by Channels TV, sparked speculation, criticism, and political tension especially among the PDP loyalists in the state.
But the Governor insists the situation is being misunderstood.
“It’s within the purview of the CPS [Chief Press Secretary] to change correspondents within the Government House,” Eno stated, brushing aside claims of punitive action. “This is standard practice worldwide. If someone has served for nearly a decade, it’s not unusual to ask for a replacement.”
Still, the governor’s attempt to frame the move as routine has failed to quell suspicions. Media observers and political analysts are questioning the timing and manner of the shake-up, especially as it closely followed the controversial broadcast.
Human rights lawyer and outspoken activist Inebehe Effiong challenged the governor’s narrative, suggesting there’s more to the story than the administration is willing to admit.
“Channels TV couldn’t have filmed such a sensitive political meeting without an official invitation or clearance,” Effiong argued. “If the governor had no issue with the report, why the sudden removal of their crew?”
Governor Eno attempted to deflect further criticism by emphasizing his commitment to press freedom and collaboration with all media houses, noting that Channels TV was still broadcasting his administration’s events.
“Channels is here today, beaming us live,” he added. “We work with all media houses.”
Yet, critics argue that the governor’s remarks do little to erase the perception that the action was politically motivated a subtle message to journalists that critical or uncomfortable coverage may come at a price.
The episode adds to a growing list of instances where Nigerian politicians appear to be taking thinly veiled jabs at press freedom. And while Governor Eno may call it a “routine replacement,” others see it as a troubling reminder of how the line between public accountability and political sensitivity remains dangerously blurred in the country’s democratic space.
Whether this was a legitimate administrative reshuffle or an act of media muzzling disguised as protocol, one thing is clear this is a story that won’t disappear quietly.
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Governor Eno’s Channels TV Controversy: Eviction or Strategic Shake-Up?