•••Says It is Unacceptable
By Attah Ede
The Presidency has said that it is unacceptable for any publication, including The Guardian, to incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties being experienced by Nigerians.
It further declared that President Bola Tinubu is not weak to allow room for the military to take power from him.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy communication, Bayo Onanuga, stated this while responding to an editorial published by The Guardian, titled, ‘Misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices’.
Onanuga in an open letter to the Guardian condemn the editorial, accusing the paper of attempting to incite unrest against Tinubu’s administration.
The letter reads partly: “The Guardian newspaper’s lead story of Friday, October 25, 2024, with the title: “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices,” openly incites unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocates for regime change under the guise of journalism. The inflammatory headline, cartoon and content deviate from responsible reporting.
“The Guardian’s agenda is unmistakable from the cover illustration to the article. In attempting to create a balanced veneer, the author condemns military rule while fanning the flames of military intervention.
“We must question how The Guardian can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it unless it harbours a deliberate agenda.
“We must question how The Guardian can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it unless it harbours a deliberate agenda. This latest editorial reflects a troubling trend in which the publication has persistently propagated inflammatory and negative narratives, stepping dangerously close to undermining the very fabric of responsible journalism.
“President Tinubu has consistently called for understanding and patience amid our nation’s challenges. This plea is not a sign of weakness but an affirmation of his dedication to a brighter future for Nigeria.
“In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication, including The Guardian, to incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties.
“A more cautious and responsible approach would have better served its readers and the nation.
“Journalism—like our democracy—thrives on fairness and objectivity, and all media outlets must uphold these standards.
“We encourage The Guardian and similar platforms to prioritise balanced reporting that fosters dialogue and understanding rather than division and unrest.
“At this time, we need our people and the media to rally around the government as the Tinubu-led administration steers our country through this challenging period to a better future”.
