The Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has asserted that President Bola Tinubu is not weak and will not allow the military to seize power.
This statement came from in response to an editorial published by The Guardian titled “Misery, Harsh Policies Driving Nigerians to Desperate Choices.”
In an open letter condemning the editorial, Onanuga accused the publication of attempting to incite unrest against Tinubu’s administration.
He criticized the editorial’s framing, stating that it openly incites discontent and advocates for regime change under the guise of journalism.
Onanuga highlighted that the editorial’s headline and content stray from responsible reporting, suggesting that The Guardian has a clear agenda. He argued that while the article superficially condemns military rule, it simultaneously stirs sentiments favoring military intervention.
He raised concerns about the implications of presenting arguments for military intervention while ostensibly denouncing it, suggesting that this reflects a troubling trend in the publication’s approach to journalism.
Onanuga reiterated that President Tinubu’s calls for understanding and patience amid national challenges are not signs of weakness but rather a commitment to a brighter future for Nigeria.
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.”
