You’re openly inciting unrest against FG calling for regime change – Presidency slams Guardian Editorial
You’re openly inciting unrest against FG calling for regime change – Presidency slams Guardian Editorial
The Presidency on Saturday faulted The Guardian newspaper’s lead story of Oct. 25, which had the title: “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices.”
Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, in a statement, said that the story “openly incited unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocated regime change under the guise of journalism”.
He said the inflammatory headline and content deviated from responsible reporting.
“The Guardian’s agenda was 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,” said Onanuga.
“This was evident in the introduction to the article,” he said.
The newspaper wrote: “Nigerians were exhilarated with the return of democracy in 1999, but 25 years on, the buccaneering nature of politicians, their penchant for poor service delivery, morbid hatred for probity, accountability, and credible/transparent elections, among others, are forcing some flustered citizens to make extreme choices, including calling for military intervention.
Continuing, the newspaper said, “Deep despondency permeates every facet of the polity consequent upon soaring cost of living.
“And while the political elite splurge on fine wines and exotic automobiles amid poor service delivery, calls for regime change could become more strident in the days ahead even though military insurrection holds no solution to the country’s woes.”
The Special Adviser said the newspaper must be questioned on how it could present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it “unless it harboured 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.
“Moreover, the lead story 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,” Onanuga stated.
He said such narratives could embolden anarchists intent on disrupting the 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 Guardian acknowledges that military rule is terrible.
“Yet, it attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did,” said Onanuga.
He said the narrative by the newspaper neglected the hard-fought battle that birthed the country’s democracy and served only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians were enjoying.
“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,” Onanuga argued.
He explained that Tinubu had consistently called for understanding and patience amid the nation’s challenges.
“The President’s 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.
“According to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97 per cent in 2023 to 68 per cent in 2024.
“Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to 39.1 billion dollars on Oct. 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98 per cent in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31 per cent in Q1 2023,” stated Onanuga.
He said this growth was driven by sectors beyond oil, including the financial services sector, mining, and quarrying, marking a significant shift in the country’s 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, 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,” he said.
According to him, journalism, like democracy, thrives on fairness and objectivity, a standard he says all media outlets must uphold.
“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 toward a better future,” Onanuga said. (NAN)
News
Rivers Lawmakers fail to resume plenary amid ongoing impeachment proceedings against Gov Fubara
Rivers Lawmakers fail to resume plenary amid ongoing impeachment proceedings against Gov Fubara
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, did not reconvene for plenary on Thursday, a week after adjourning its last session.
During its first sitting of 2026, held last Thursday, the House had initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, over alleged gross misconduct. The charges reportedly included the demolition of the state assembly complex and unauthorized spending, among other allegations. That session was adjourned to January 15, 2026.
However, as of noon on Thursday, a visit to the assembly—currently holding sittings at its conference hall along Aba Road—showed no indication that the House would resume.
No official reason has been provided for the delay, and a new date for resumption has not been announced.
News
Two killed, others arrested as Police operatives engage hoodlums that attacked ex–Governor’s convoy in gun battle
Two killed, others arrested as Police operatives engage hoodlums that attacked ex–Governor’s convoy in gun battle
Two suspected armed robbers were shot dead following a prolonged gun battle with police at Enugwu Agidi Junction in Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to the state police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, the clash occurred between security operatives and hoodlums believed to be armed robbers and cultists with links to a proscribed secessionist group. He said the exchange of gunfire lasted about two hours.
Ikenga disclosed on Thursday that three other suspects escaped during the operation, sustaining varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
He added that items recovered from the scene included one T.06 rifle, two pump-action guns, 24 rounds of T.06 ammunition, 15 live cartridges, assorted criminal charms, a red cult beret, and a black Toyota Highlander vehicle.
He said, “Anambra State Police Command in the early hours of 14th January 2026 recorded another major operational breakthrough in its sustained efforts to rid the State of criminal elements and ensure the safety of lives and property.
“The Police Operatives attached to Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu acting on credible and actionable intelligence, laid an ambush to a 5-man group of armed hoodlums suspected to be armed robbers, cultists, and linked to a proscribed secessionist group at Enugwu Agidi Junction, Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State.
“Upon sighting the Operatives, the suspects engaged the Officers in a fierce gun battle that lasted for two hours which resulted to fatal gun shot injuries on two of the armed suspects, while the other three fled the scene with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
“The Operatives also recovered One (1) T.06 rifle, two (2) pump-action guns, Twenty-four (24) rounds of T.06 ammunition, Fifteen (15) live cartridges, Assorted criminal charms, One cult red beret and One black Toyota Highlander vehicle.
“Furthermore, while in deep agony, one of the armed suspects confessed the gang members as being part of those who launched an unsuccessful but repelled attack by the Police Operatives on the convoy of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige.
“He also confessed being part of the striking squad of Vikings confraternity on a mission to retaliate the death of one of their members by another rival cult group.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu while commending the gallantry of the operatives charged them to intensify efforts to arrest other gang members, particularly those who fled with gunshot injuries during the encounter.
“Meanwhile, hospital or related medical facilities are advised to admit anyone with gunshot wounds or related injuries, but must endeavor to report such to the nearest Police Station immediately.
“Further developments will be communicated as investigations progress.”
News
BREAKING: Dollar rain on Super Eagles despite AFCON semi final loss to Morocco
BREAKING: Dollar rain on Super Eagles despite AFCON semi final loss to Morocco
The Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has commended Nigeria’s Super Eagles for their gallant display at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
He said that the monetary pledged by made him still stands in spite of the semifinal defeat by host Morocco.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a heartbreaking loss from the 2025 AFCON after losing 4-2 on penalties to host Morocco in a tense semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat on Wednesday.
Rabiu praised the players’ courage, unity and determination, describing their performance as worthy of national pride and celebration.
The disclosed this in his official X handle, where he congratulated the Super Eagles for their impressive performance and national pride.
“You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage on the pitch. Every Nigerian is proud of you,” Rabiu said.
He noted that results do not always reflect effort, stressing that the team’s fighting spirit and passion resonated strongly with Nigerians at home and abroad.
“Sometimes our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we desire, but the spirit and unity you displayed truly matter.
“I am going ahead with the $500,000 pledge in recognition of your hard work, dedication and the joy you brought to our nation,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rabiu had earlier promised the reward following Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria in the AFCON 2025 quarter-final.
Rabiu urged the players to remain focused, expressing confidence that the lessons from the tournament would inspire future success.
“Keep your heads high. This experience will fuel greater victories. Nigeria believes in you,” the BUA Chairman said.(NAN)
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