In a recent development, the Nigerian Presidency has taken the decision to revoke the accreditation of 25 journalists who had previously been granted permission to cover the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. This prominent location serves as both the office and residence of the country’s president. On August 18, 2023, a group of journalists were unexpectedly notified of the revocation of their accreditation upon their arrival at the Villa. They were instructed to surrender their accreditation tags without being provided with any explanation for this decision.
Reporters, cameramen, and photojournalists from various media outlets, including PromptNews, ONTV, ITV Abuja, Liberty, Vanguard, Galaxy TV, Ben TV, and MITV, have been affected by the recent events. The individual has been tasked with obtaining video clips and other news materials from their colleagues who still possess valid accreditations.
In a recent development, 25 journalists and photojournalists have had their accreditation tags retrieved from them out of a total of 96 accredited media organisations that were previously covering the Presidency.
In a recent statement, Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, the special adviser to the president on media and publicity, shed light on the internal measures taken to address overcrowding within various departments of the State House. Emphasising that the reduction was not limited to the media department alone, Mr. Ngelale clarified the intention behind this move.
In a recent statement, Ajuri asserted that the number of print photographers has been decreased in order to optimise the utilisation of the remaining six photographers. It is important to note that this count does not encompass the numerous videographers who are still present. The decision to reduce the number of photographers was prompted by concerns raised by State House officials and visiting dignitaries regarding the overcrowding of the press gallery area, which obstructs the path to the President’s Office and poses security risks.
According to his statement, there are still 62 other members of the Press corps present, which includes all major print, online, and electronic media outlets.
