The Akwa Ibom State Government has reportedly barred Channels Television’s reporter Christopher Moffat and cameraman Kufre Ikpe from entering the press centre at the Government House in Uyo.
This action follows the broadcast of a viral video in which Governor Umo Eno openly disclosed his intention to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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During a recent State Executive Council (SEC) meeting, the governor cited the internal crisis within the PDP as the driving force behind his decision to switch political allegiance.
He further instructed members of his cabinet and political appointees to either join him in the APC or relinquish their appointments.
“It is no longer news that I’m leaving the party,” the governor had said.
“I am told that some of you are saying that you will not come. You are free, absolutely free, not to join me, but you won’t be in my state executive council.
“So, you better just be prepared to resign the day I announce that I’m moving because you are an appointee and your loyalty is fully to me.
“You can’t be in my cabinet and play anti-party (affairs). It is not possible; it’s not a threat; it is what it is. I won’t beg you to come; you should normally not even expect it.”
Following the meeting, Ekerete Udoh, the governor’s spokesperson, allegedly cautioned media personnel, including those from Channels TV, against broadcasting the governor’s comments.
According to PREMIUM TIMES, Udoh informed the Channels correspondent that Governor Eno had barred both him and his cameraman from the Government House press centre.
A source cited by the publication claimed, “The governor was so furious, he wanted to sack Ekerete and disband the entire press corps.”
Christopher Moffat is reported to have served as Channels Television’s correspondent at the Akwa Ibom Government House for more than a decade.
