The Nigerian Ministry of Defence has issued a firm rebuttal against allegations that it deliberately prevented Channels Television from covering a major national security symposium. The incident reportedly occurred during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) event held at the prestigious National Defence College in Abuja.
Ministry's Official Statement on the Incident
In a detailed statement released on Monday, 13 January 2026, the ministry, through its Chief Information Officer, Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, labeled the reports of a media blackout as inaccurate. The ministry clarified the sequence of events, explaining that a comprehensive media advisory was distributed prior to the symposium. This advisory clearly stated that the programme would commence at 10:00 a.m., with journalists expected to be seated by 9:30 a.m. to complete necessary accreditation and security screenings.
According to the official account, a cameraman from Channels Television adhered to these guidelines. He arrived before the event's start, was successfully accredited, and faced no restrictions in covering the symposium. The contention arose with a separate reporter from the same station who arrived after the proceedings had begun.
Security Protocol Cited for Denied Entry
The ministry's statement emphasized that the reporter's late entry was denied strictly on security and protocol grounds. Iheoma-Hart explained that by the time the reporter arrived, dignitaries were already seated and security checks were actively ongoing. The decision was framed as a standard operational procedure to ensure the safety and orderliness of the event, not a targeted action against the media house.
The Ministry of Defence strongly rejected any suggestion that this was a deliberate attempt to exclude Channels Television. It reiterated its commitment to treating all professional media organisations as essential partners in fostering public information and governmental transparency.
Call for Fact-Checking and Future Engagement
In her statement, Queeneth Iheoma-Hart used the opportunity to urge journalists and media outlets to verify facts thoroughly before broadcasting reports that could potentially misrepresent situations. She stressed the importance of accuracy in reporting on matters of national security and official ceremonies.
The ministry concluded by affirming its continued dedication to according due respect to all invited media organisations covering AFCRD activities. This cooperation, however, will remain in line with scheduled programmes and established standard security procedures. The incident underscores the ongoing balance between media access and the stringent security protocols required at high-level government and military functions in Abuja.
