Security Personnel Bar Journalists from ABU Zaria’s 45th Convocation

Despite presenting valid staff identity cards and university-issued accreditation tags, correspondents from several major media outlets were denied access to the Mamman Kontagora Square, the official venue for the ceremony. Affected media organizations include: 

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Daily Trust

Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)

Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC)

NTA Zaria and Nagarta Radio 

A security officer at the scene, identified as Mr C.K., reportedly stated he was acting on a directive from the Chief Security Officer, Malam Ashiru Zango. According to the officer, media personnel were required to obtain additional personal clearance from the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, before being allowed entry. The affected journalists formally protested the decision, noting they had already fulfilled all established accreditation requirements. 

The 45th Convocation followed a series of high-profile activities, including: 

Pre-Convocation Lecture (Jan 30): Delivered by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (DG, WTO) and chaired by former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

Public Lecture (Jan 29): Delivered by former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, on national unity and religious harmony. 

The university has yet to release an official statement regarding the security incident or the disruption of media coverage.