A former member of the dissolved All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, Oladotun Hassan, has made allegations against the Igbo community, claiming they spearheaded ethnic bigotry in the lead-up to the 2023 general elections. Hassan also accused Arise Television and one of its anchors, Rufai Oseni, of contributing to the escalation of tensions through their negative reporting.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show programme, following the European Union’s Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) report on the 2023 general elections, Oladotun expressed his concerns. The EU EOM report highlighted shortcomings in law and electoral administration, which hindered the fair and inclusive conduct of the elections and consequently eroded trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Oladotun, however, asserted that the Igbos and Arise Television should take responsibility for some of the skirmishes during the election period. He specifically directed his criticism towards Rufai Oseni, insinuating that he posed questions as if he were a member of the Labour Party.
“Most times, Mr. Rufai, you pick your questions as if you’re a political member aligned with the Labour Party. I’m sorry to say this,” Oladotun said.
He continued, “There were seditious statements made by Datti Baba-Ahmed that are criminal in nature. These statements are related to the electoral process and citizens’ value system. In a competitive environment, everyone uses the tactics at their disposal.”
Oladotun emphasized the need for condemnation of certain statements and reassured the Igbo community of their safety in Lagos. However, he also pointed out that the reaction to the verbal jabs thrown by the Igbos towards the Yoruba community was expected, as every action has a corresponding reaction. He cited instances where Igbo individuals, including Nollywood actors, engaged in media banter and name-calling against the Yoruba people.
“I must sincerely say that Arise Television equally contributed negatively to these incidents because they reported some things in a biased manner,” Oladotun added.
He further criticized Arise Television for what he believed to be an attack on the APC during their coverage, calling attention to their bias.
The EU EOM report provides crucial insights into the challenges experienced during the 2023 general elections. Oladotun’s claims regarding ethnic bigotry and negative media reporting underscore the necessity for responsible and unbiased journalism, as well as fostering unity amongst different ethnic groups in Nigeria.
