Metro TV has become aware of a formal complaint regarding a news published on our digital platforms on March 11, 2026, which incorrectly stated that Ms. Esther Araba Assabil, popularly known as “Araba”, had passed away in Canada.
Following a thorough review, we acknowledge that the report was inaccurate.
We unreservedly retract the publication in its entirety and wish to state unequivocally that Ms. Esther Araba Assabil is alive. The report announcing her death was false and should not have been published.
Metro TV extends its sincerest and unqualified apology to Ms. Esther Araba Assabil, her family, friends, business associates and the general public for the distress, anxiety and inconvenience caused by this erroneous publication.
As a media organisation, we recognise that accuracy, fairness and verification are fundamental principles of responsible journalism. In this instance, our editorial processes fell short of the standards we strive to uphold. We deeply regret this lapse and accept full responsibility for the publication.
In line with this retraction, Metro TV has commenced the removal of the affected content from all our digital platforms and archives. We are also reviewing our editorial verification procedures to strengthen our fact-checking processes and prevent a recurrence of such an incident.
We value the trust that our viewers and the public place in us and remain committed to reporting with professionalism, accuracy and integrity.
Once again, we offer our heartfelt apology to Ms. Esther Araba Assabil and all those affected by this regrettable error.
Issued by:
Management
Metro TV
Ignite Media Group
Date: July 14, 2026
