‘I was under huge pressure’: Seb Costello on toilet chase and leaving Nine
Former Nine reporter Seb Costello has publicly addressed his controversial exit from the network in an awkward interview with former footballer Sam Newman.
The A Current Affair reporter resigned from Nine earlier this month, in the midst of a network investigation into a November 2024 incident where he chased an interviewee into a women’s toilet and filmed him over the cubicle door.
Mo Ahmed, an executive from Oak Capital, alleged assault and Costello was stood down. He did not return to work after the incident, and resigned two weeks ago.
I was with Seb Costello at the Intercontinental Hotel in Melbourne when he attempted to interview Mohammed Ahmed from Oak Capital. This was the third time I had met Seb for an interview about Oak Capital’s conduct. I appreciate Seb’s efforts in asking the essential questions that need to be answered, especially given the impact of Oak Capital’s actions on many businesses and families. It’s puzzling why Mr Ahmed chose to take refuge in the women’s toilet cubicle when I approached him. I can confirm there was no assault, as no authorities have reached out to me. I was the only person other than Seb, the cameraman, the sounds-man & Mr Ahmed present.
I want to thank Seb, the cameraman, and the sound technicians for going above and beyond to seek answers from a man who has affected many lives on behalf of Oak Capital. I have no doubt Seb was aware that he would face many questions about the incident on Sam Newman’s podcast, and although he could have avoided it, he still chose to participate despite the negative comments. I wish Seb all the best in the future. Not many journalists would have taken the same steps as Seb to interview a man who needs to answer important questions.
THANK YOU SEB!