Rivers State Government Gives AIT 48-Hour Notice To Evacuate

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Rivers State Government has given a 48-hour ultimatum to Daar Communications, owners of African Independent Television/Ray Power, to vacate the land housing its Port Harcourt transmission station or have it demolished.

The eviction notice, which was issued on 20th March 2023, was signed by the Permanent Secretary, Rivers Ministry of Works, Ebere Dennis-Emenike.

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The notice reads:

“Following the imminent commencement of the above project, all structure(s) impacting on the right-of-way of the project have been earmarked for demolition, including your own. Consequently, you are by this notice requested to remove such structure(s) within forty-eight (48) hours to allow for speedy progress of work.”

The reason for the eviction notice is reportedly due to a feud between Governor Nyesom Wike and Raymond Dokpesi, the owner of Daar Communications. However, Governor Wike insists that the eviction order is not a personal vendetta and that the establishment has no title to the expansive premises it occupies in the Rivers state capital city.

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has pleaded with the Rivers State Government not to take laws into its own hands and has called for dialogue between both parties.

In a statement signed by Stanley Job, Chairman, and Ike Wigodo, Secretary, the NUJ appealed to the Rivers State Government to review the quit notice given to Daar Communications Plc, owners of AIT and Raypower Radio Station.

The statement reads:

“We believe proper negotiation and peaceful resolution of the land dispute will serve the Government and people of Rivers better. Whatever the merit of the quit notice, we would not want the world to see the Press in a fight with Rivers State in view of the long-standing mutual relationship. NUJ will not be happy to see a Media House in Rivers State demolished over a land dispute that can be resolved peacefully and amicably.”

Daar Communications is yet to respond to the eviction notice, and it is uncertain what the next steps will be in this ongoing situation.

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However, it is important for both parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to find a mutually beneficial solution to the land dispute. It is also crucial for the government to respect the freedom of the press and ensure that media houses are not unduly harassed or threatened.

The NUJ’s appeal for peaceful negotiation and resolution of the dispute is a commendable stance, and it is hoped that both parties will heed this call and work towards an amicable resolution.

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