Presidency fumes over “military intervention” editorial, says Guardian inciting Nigerians against Tinubu

• Onanuga accused the news platform of sedition, asserting that the publication has the penchant for pushing dangerous and incendiary narratives that negate the ethos and principles of journalism

The Presidency has kicked against implicit calls for military takeover in Nigeria as hardship and cost of living crisis worsen.

It said President Bola Tinubu is fully in charge and his plea to Nigerians to be understanding and patient should not seen as a sign of weakness and opportunity for the military to take power from him.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the statement in reaction 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 news platform of sedition, asserting that the publication has the penchant for pushing dangerous and incendiary narratives that negate the ethos and principles of journalism.

He said the media outlet couched it call for undemocratic change of government in nuanced and balanced editorial.

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.

“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.”