PRESIDENCY KICKS AGAINST THE OPEN-CALL BY A NATIONAL NEWSPAPER FOR A CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT IN THE COUNTRY 26-10-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Presidency has kicked against the open-call by a national newspaper for a change of government in the country
Quoting the title of the lead story: “Calls for Military Intervention: Misery, Harsh Policies Driving Nigerians to Desperate Choices”, punished on Friday, 25th October, this year, the Presidency views it as openly inciting unrest against President Tinubu’s administration.
Signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency understands that the advocates regime change under the guise of journalism, warning that headline and content deviate from responsible reporting.
The statement wonders how the newspaper can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it if it is not harbouring a deliberate agenda.
According to the Presidency, 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.
It expresses concern that Moreover the lead story, moreover, relies heavily upon emotive language and imagery—such as an illustration of military armoured tank—to bolster its argument while neglecting to present a balanced view.
“It indulges in lampooning the current administration while ignoring positive developments in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The report lacks empirical data and fails to exhibit the journalistic rigour that the situation demands.
” It appears lost on the publication that such narratives could embolden anarchists intent on disrupting our democratic process.
” Military rule is an anachronism in modern civilisations, irrespective of its framing, due to the oppressive nature typically associated with its practice.
” Guided by its experience in 1984, when two of its journalists were jailed by the military regime for reporting the truth, the newspaper acknowledges that military rule is terrible” , the Presidency notes. .
It says the publication attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting that he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did.
“This narrative neglects the hard-fought battle that birthed our democracy and serves only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians now enjoy.
” Good journalism is characterised by restraint and a commitment to national interest. Media outlets must propagate responsible reporting that contributes to an informed citizenry.
” During times of political and economic crises, the media, as a force for good, should rally the public around their leaders, fostering unity and patience as reforms are introduced.
” 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.
” Moreover, recent policy changes have initiated a turnaround, yielding positive economic indicators” it explains.
Quoting the Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the statement says that the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024.
It points out that Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39.1 billion on October 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98% in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31% in Q1 2023.
“This growth was driven by sectors beyond oil, including the financial services sector, mining, and quarrying, marking a significant shift in our economic structure.
” We are now exporting more than we are importing, with trade surpluses recorded in two consecutive quarters.
” In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication 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”, the Presidency warns.
It encourages the newspaper in question and similar platforms to prioritise balanced reporting that fosters dialogue and understanding rather than division and unrest.
The statement further encourages the media to rally around the government, as the Tinubu-led Administration steers the country through this challenging period to a better future.