Presidency Accuses The Guardian of Inciting Unrest, Calls Editorial a Push for Military Intervention

The Nigerian Presidency has sharply criticized The Guardian newspaper, alleging that a recent editorial published by the newspaper promotes military intervention in the country, which it sees as a threat to national stability. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a statement on behalf of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, denouncing the publication for what he described as “irresponsible reporting” that undermines Nigeria’s democracy and disregards journalistic integrity.

Onanuga pointed to the article’s language and imagery, asserting that the publication, despite condemning military rule on the surface, indirectly endorses it by highlighting grievances that some citizens may interpret as a call for military intervention. He described the editorial as both “inflammatory” and “inciting,” suggesting that it seeks to influence public sentiment against the Tinubu administration at a time when the country faces significant socio-economic challenges.

“Nigerians were exhilarated with the return of democracy in 1999,” the editorial begins, highlighting deep-rooted frustration among citizens over issues like poor service delivery and economic hardship, and noting that some are calling for “extreme choices” in response. According to Onanuga, this phrasing is emblematic of an agenda that subtly advances the notion of military involvement in governance under the guise of objective reporting.

In response, Onanuga underscored the importance of national unity and urged the public and the media to rally behind the Tinubu-led government as it navigates these trying times. He emphasized the administration’s ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s challenges and reiterated President Tinubu’s appeal for understanding and patience. The presidency’s statement argued that the article’s approach not only risks igniting political tension but disregards Nigeria’s hard-earned democratic freedoms.

The presidency’s response comes amid rising public discourse on government accountability and economic conditions, but Onanuga asserted that responsible media coverage must not stoke sentiments that threaten democratic stability. Instead, he called on media outlets to support the government’s efforts to lead the nation toward a more stable future, maintaining that Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria remains focused on sustainable progress and unity.