By Harriet Tornguvan
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has dismissed reports alleging that it denied Channels Television access to the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day symposium held on Tuesday at the National Defence College, Abuja.
In a statement issued by Iheoma-Hart Queeneth, Chief Information Officer of the Sub-Committee on Publicity for the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, the Ministry explained that a media advisory had been circulated ahead of the event, informing invited media organisations that proceedings would begin at 10:00 a.m., with all journalists expected to be seated by 9:30 a.m. to allow for accreditation, security screening and smooth conduct of the programme.
The MOD clarified that contrary to claims aired by Channels TV, its personnel were not deliberately barred from covering the event. According to the statement, a Channels TV cameraman who arrived on time was duly accredited and allowed to film the proceedings without restriction.
However, the reporter who arrived after the programme had commenced was denied entry in line with established security and protocol requirements, as dignitaries were already seated and security checks were ongoing.
The Ministry expressed concern over what it described as inaccurate reporting suggesting the deliberate exclusion of any accredited media organisation, stressing that it values the media as key partners in public information and transparency.
While urging media organisations to uphold responsible journalism and verify facts before broadcast, the MOD reaffirmed that all invited media houses, including Channels TV, remain welcome to cover subsequent activities of the Armed Forces Celebration, subject to the event schedule and standard security procedures.
