The ActionAid Nigeria has Condemned the closure of AIT and Raypower operations in Rivers state by the state government.
In a statement, the Country Director, Andrew Mamedus said it was appalled by the recent action taken by the Rivers State Government to unlawfully shut down the operations of Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM in Port Harcourt.
The Rights group described the action as an unjust and draconian move by the telecommunications engineers hired by Rivers State Government and accompanied by armed security operatives, saying it is a blatant violation of Media Freedom and Violation of Legal Processes.
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It called on the Rivers State Government to reconsider its actions and uphold the values of transparency, respect for the rule of law, and freedom of the press.
“The Rivers State Government’s actions as reported, include dismantling the broadcasting infrastructure, disconnecting the wave guard from the antenna on the mast, and even deploying bulldozers to demolish the Transmitter Complex at the DAAR Communications PLC Broadcast Centre in Port Harcourt.
The group said The actions not only constitute a severe breach of media rights but also jeopardise the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on these media outlets for their daily sustenance.
ActionAid expressed displeasure over the attitude of the engineers despite ongoing legal proceedings and presumably fruitful dialogue related to the land dispute between the state government and DAAR Communications, Plc.
The group called on the River State Government to follow due process, respect the rule of law and refrain from any further actions until all legal options and processes are fully explored.
“We emphasise the significance of preserving the jobs and welfare of approximately 80% of the workforce, who are from the Ozuoba community, with the continued shut down of the broadcasting platforms. AAN amplifies the plea for the preservation of these jobs and the welfare of the affected families.”
ActionAid called on the Rivers State Government to engage in constructive dialogue with Daar Communications PLC and all relevant stakeholders to seek an amicable resolution to this dispute, saying it is essential to find a solution that respects the rights of all parties involved and upholds the principles of justice and fairness.
“Media freedom is a cornerstone of any democracy, and actions that undermine it have far-reaching consequences for the public’s right to information and the functioning of a vibrant civil society.”
ActionAid Nigeria also demands immediate and resolute action from the Inspector General of Police to intervene, investigate, and put an end to the blatant violation of media freedom by the Rivers State Government.
” It is crucial to send a strong message that such violations of legal processes and media freedom will no longer be tolerated in our democratic nation.”
Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe
