A group of over 50 individuals, believed to include government officials, military personnel, police officers, and unidentified persons, stormed the premises of the National Television Authority (NTA) in Onitsha, Anambra State. The invaders caused extensive damage to property, destroyed equipment, and physically assaulted staff members present at the scene.

According to reports, the attackers demolished sections of the NTA building and forcefully confiscated mobile phones from staff who attempted to record the destruction. A viral video captured the distressing incident, featuring the General Manager of NTA Onitsha, Violet Nnadi, who identified the perpetrators as land grabbers. Nnadi recounted her ordeal, stating that she was subjected to physical assault for trying to intervene. She explained that she attempted to question the legitimacy of the demolition and requested proper notice before any action was taken. Instead of receiving an explanation, she was brutally attacked, her clothing was torn, and her phones were taken away.

The destruction was reportedly orchestrated by officials from the Anambra State Physical Planning Board, supported by military personnel and individuals associated with Trans Nkisi landlord. Even though the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) urged them to halt the demolition, they continued their actions undeterred.

Several NTA crew members who tried to document the events faced violent reprisals. Their cameras were damaged, their phones were seized, and they were physically assaulted. One of the affected staff members, Onyebuchi Anigbogu, confirmed that he and his colleagues were targeted for attempting to record the incident.

In addition to NTA personnel, other victims recounted their painful experiences. One individual described how he was attacked by over 20 men who seized his phone and inflicted severe injuries on him. He lamented that everything, including goods, containers, and tables, was completely destroyed. He stated that when he tried to film the demolition, the perpetrators forcefully took his phone, attacked him, and ensured that no items could be salvaged from the wreckage.

The staff of NTA Onitsha are now calling for intervention from relevant authorities and security agencies. They question why their premises were specifically targeted while other shops within the same estate remained untouched. Their demands for justice highlight the need for a thorough investigation into the unlawful demolition and assault.

BY

NaijaMediaTrends