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Accredited journalists were denied entry into the National Assembly chamber where President Tinubu delivered his Democracy Day speech, raising press freedom concerns.
  • Tinubu addressed a joint session of the NASS to mark Democracy Day
  • Security operatives blocked accredited journalists from accessing the gallery
  • Only those with “special accreditation” were allowed in
  • Media reps from major outlets were told to watch from the media centre
  • Observers noted non-journalists were allowed in without issue
On a day meant to celebrate Nigeria’s democratic journey, journalists found themselves shut out of the very place where transparency should be most visible. While President Tinubu addressed lawmakers, members of the press, with valid tags, were told to stay outside. The irony is stark: as the nation honours its path to free expression, its gatekeepers of information were blocked from doing their jobs. If Democracy Day excludes the press, what message does it send to the public?

Freedom of the press isn’t just about access, it’s about trust. Will authorities explain, or is this the new normal?

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