The Federal Government has criticized The Guardian newspaper for fanning the embers of insurrection by preaching violent overthrow of President Bola Tinubu.
Specifically, the Presidency has deplored the paper’s lead story on October 25, titled “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices.”
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga said the article “openly incited unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and called for regime change under the guise of journalism.”
He claimed that the provocative headline and content strayed from responsible reporting.
Onanuga noted that the newspaper’s agenda was clear from the cover illustration to the text, particularly in the article’s introduction.
The Guardian wrote that while Nigerians were initially hopeful with the return of democracy in 1999, ongoing issues like poor governance have led some citizens to consider extreme measures, including military intervention.
The report described a pervasive sense of despair across the political landscape, emphasizing the disconnect between the political elite’s lavish lifestyles and the struggles of ordinary citizens. It suggested that calls for regime change might intensify, despite acknowledging that military solutions do not address the underlying issues.
But Onanuga faulted why The Guardian would argue for military intervention while superficially condemning it, suggesting it might have a hidden agenda.
He criticized the publication for perpetuating negative narratives that could undermine responsible journalism and emphasized that the article relied on emotive language and imagery, lacking a balanced perspective.
He pointed out that the report dismissed positive developments in Nigeria’s economy and lacked the rigorous analysis that the situation warranted. Such narratives, he warned, could embolden those looking to disrupt democracy.
Onanuga emphasized that military rule is outdated and oppressive, recalling how The Guardian’s own journalists faced persecution during military rule in 1984. He criticized the newspaper for provoking public anger against President Tinubu by implying he is less attentive to citizens than past military leaders.
He urged for journalism that upholds national interests, especially during crises, encouraging the media to promote unity and patience as reforms unfold.
Tinubu’s calls for understanding amidst challenges reflect his commitment to a better future, Onanuga argued and also cited recent positive economic indicators, including a decline in the revenue-to-debt service ratio and increases in foreign reserves and GDP growth.
He argued that given these developments, it is irresponsible for any publication to incite calls for military intervention based on temporary hardships.
Onanuga concluded by advocating for fairness and objectivity in journalism, encouraging The Guardian and others to focus on balanced reporting that fosters dialogue rather than division.
He called for unity around the government as the Tinubu administration navigates current challenges.
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