Reuben Abati, a seasoned journalist and former Senior Adviser on Media and Publicity to ex‑President Goodluck Jonathan, has criticised Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike for speaking disparagingly about Peter Obi, Goodluck Jonathan and Nasir El‑Rufai. Abati argued that Wike lacks the moral authority to make such comments and suggested that he should examine his own character instead.
The criticism followed Wike’s monthly media parley in Abuja, where he dismissed the possibility of Obi returning to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and advised Jonathan against contesting the 2027 presidential election. Abati, who anchors the popular Arise TV breakfast talk show “Morning Show,” questioned Wike’s ability to determine the PDP’s destiny, noting that Wike is himself affiliated with another political party.
Abati said Wike’s remarks about Obi’s character were unfounded and pointed out that Wike had contributed to the PDP’s problems. He also took issue with Wike’s advice to Jonathan, arguing that the minister was not in a position to offer such counsel. Moreover, Abati expressed concern that the media was providing Wike with a platform to disparage his political opponents, suggesting that monetary interests were driving this coverage.
According to Abati, the media has a responsibility to give a right of reply to those who have been disparaged rather than simply amplifying Wike’s views. He emphasized that Wike’s comments were not only reckless but also unintelligent, and called for greater discernment in reporting his statements. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, as various factions and individuals vie for influence ahead of future elections. As the country approaches those contests, rhetoric is likely to intensify, and the media’s role in covering these developments will be closely scrutinised, with many calling for more nuanced and balanced reporting.
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