CNN has been accused of spreading falsehoods about Lagos state by the deputy governor, Mrs Idiat Adebule, saying the network had failed to establish its claims.
Lagos state has threatened to impose sanctions on CNN over reports that a tollgate is causing traffic jams on the city’s roads, but did not present any evidence to back up her allegation.
CNN reported that a bridge linking the Lekki Free Trade Zone to a busy area in western Lagos was costing motorists $50 (£35) to cross. The company behind the bridge, which gave no reason for the increase, said Nigeria’s government had demanded additional tolls for the bridge, which led to the tollgate, but it would not give a timetable.
Details of the statement, issued on Thursday, were long on adjectives and short on specifics, but the deputy governor, Mrs Idiat Adebule, said: “The lies in CNN’s story are not only unprofessional, irresponsible and unwholesome but they are also a danger to the health of the citizenry.”
CNN called the claim “somewhat implausible” but the network was still to publish its reply, said Sarah Ismail, spokeswoman for CNN International.