DAAR Communication: Jonathan summons Akunyili – The Nation

The Presidency has denied involvement in the alleged plans to revoke the operational network licence of DAAR Communications, owners of Africa Independent Television and Raypower radio stations.

The Presidency said it was unaware of the said action.

DAAR communications has gone to court over the planned withdrawal of its operating licence.

DAAR, the first private television station operator in the country, was granted licence about 14 years ago.

The network licence allows it to maintain multiple terrestrial stations thereby allowing it to transmit across the country.

According to a source in the Presidency, neither President Umaru Yar’Adua nor Vice President Goodluck Jonathan was briefed on the issue.

The source said Jonathan has summoned the Minister of Information and Communications, Prof Dora Akunyili and Director-General (DG) of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Yomi Bolarinwa to explain the circumstances leading to the “purported move to revoke the licence.”

The source said: “The Presidency was not aware of the development and is not happy with the revocation allegation. Right now as we speak, the Minister and DG have been summoned to defend the purported action. I can also authoritatively tell you that The Presidency is not aware of the development because neither the President nor the Vice President was briefed. This administration is one that is built on the tenets of the rule of law and freedom of press. Any move that will erode these principles will be addressed promptly and collectively.”

Groups, colleagues mourn AIT gmd, Ladi Lawal – The Punch

Journalism in Nigeria lost another icon on Saturday following the death of the Group Managing Director of DAAR Communications Plc, Mr Ladi Lawal, whom his boss and Chairman of DAAR Group, Mr. Raymond Dokpesi, described as his friend and his pillar.