In response to objections from the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding the portrayal of its role in the February 17 crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly, both Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Channels Television have formally apologized to the DSS.
During the News Hour program, AIT clarified that its previous report was based on eyewitness accounts that ultimately misrepresented the DSS’s role. In their statement, they said, “We apologize to the DSS for the news item broadcast on February 17, 2025, regarding their presence at the Lagos State House of Assembly. Our intention was not to malign or embarrass the DSS, which we respect for its role in safeguarding our nation. We acknowledge that our reporting was incomplete and regret any embarrassment it may have caused.”
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Similarly, Channels TV issued an apology during its Politics Today program, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye. He addressed the initial portrayal of lawmakers being shocked by the DSS’s presence, suggesting an invasion. Okinbaloye noted, “It was later revealed that the clerk of the Lagos Assembly had requested DSS protection. The portrayal we presented was misleading, and the term ‘invasion’ was inappropriate, as the DSS was invited. We sincerely apologize for any misunderstandings regarding their role.”
Ngoshe expressed hope that “the apology will be officially conveyed to the Department of State Services.”
The DSS had previously threatened legal action against both stations for what it deemed false and malicious reporting. In a letter from their lawyer, Adedeji Adedipe (SAN), the DSS denied any unlawful conduct, highlighting its support of existing security forces. They demanded an immediate retraction and a public apology to be aired for three consecutive days, warning that failure to comply within seven days could result in civil and criminal actions under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act.
