TheCable

The management of DAAR Communications Plc, owners of the African Independent Television  (AIT), says the Rivers government was behind the destruction of its mast and building in the state.

DAAR Communications in a statement, said officials of the Rivers government accompanied by security personnel carried out the “operations” that resulted in the collapse of its assets in the state on Monday.

“On the 4th of September 2023, at approximately 10am, the Rivers State Government, accompanied by federal security agencies, carried out operations which resulted in the collapse of the Transmission Mast for AIT and Raypower in Port-Harcourt,” the statement reads.

“The collapse resulted in the damage of the transmitter building and the antennas, so AIT and Raypower terrestrial transmission are off-air.

The organisation said it is actively working to restore operations and services as soon as possible in the state.

“It is important to note that the matter surrounding the dispute between DAAR Communications PLC and the Rivers State Government is currently being deliberated in court,” the statement added.

The broadcaster said since the feud with the Rivers state government is in court, it will be subjudice to speak on the matter.

In March, the Rivers government issued a demolition notice to AIT, saying that the land on which the station was built was part of the state housing project.

But the broadcasting outfit denied the claim, insisting that it had been using the land for over 20 years.