There was tension at the National Assembly complex on Wednesday as security operatives prevented journalists from accessing the premises, leaving many accredited media personnel stranded.
The security agents, including the Sergeant-at-Arms and police officers stationed at the complex, justified their actions by citing “orders from above,” insisting that only individuals with official permanent identity cards would be allowed entry into the White House section of the Assembly.
Journalists who attempted to reason with the operatives explained that the National Assembly’s Information Department had yet to issue the permanent ID cards. Despite their pleas, the officers remained unmoved, refusing to grant them access even when temporary accreditation documents were presented.
Tension Escalates, Journalists AssaultedAs frustration grew over the restriction, security operatives resorted to aggressive tactics, including verbal abuse and physical assault. During the confrontation, a journalist from The Sun, Mudashiru Atanda, sustained injuries, while Nicolas Kalu of The Nation and Gloria Essien from Voice of Nigeria were roughly pushed aside when they attempted to intervene.
In a shocking display of hostility, an operative seized the smartphone of Tolu Akinyemi, an accredited journalist with SuperScreen Television, threatening that she would never recover it.
National Assembly Denies Issuing Restriction OrdersWhen reached for comments, the Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly distanced itself from the security measures, stating that no official directive had been issued to bar journalists from carrying out their constitutional duty of covering legislative activities.
This incident has sparked outrage among media professionals and press freedom advocates, who are calling for urgent action to prevent a recurrence. Observers have noted that such restrictions hinder transparency and accountability, which are crucial for democracy.
As the situation unfolds, media stakeholders are urging the National Assembly leadership to address the issue and ensure that accredited journalists can perform their duties without harassment or intimidation.
