Accredited journalists covering the National Assembly were denied entry to the legislative chamber on Thursday, June 12, 2025, ahead of a scheduled address by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President was expected to speak at a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives as part of Democracy Day commemorations. Despite holding valid accreditation tags, reporters from numerous media organizations were reportedly prevented from accessing the gallery by security personnel at the entrance. Security officials, including those from the Department of State Services and the Sergeant-at-Arms, reportedly stated that only individuals possessing “special accreditation” would be permitted to cover the proceedings. Information gathered indicated that while accredited press members were excluded, a number of politicians, aides, and other individuals without official roles in the session were allowed inside the chamber. Security personnel reportedly advised the journalists to follow the session via television screens located in the National Assembly’s media centre. Members of the press corps covering the National Assembly criticized the development, characterizing it as an infringement on press freedom and a deliberate attempt to restrict media coverage of a significant national event.
