Calls for military intervention unacceptable – Presidency

The Presidency has described as unacceptable publications that “incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties.”

Reacting to a publication entitled, “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices,” the presidency said it is an open incitement to unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocating for a regime change under the guise of journalism.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement said the headline and “content deviate from responsible reporting.”

Onanuga said the latest editorial from the media organization (not Daily Trust) reflects a troubling trend in which they persistently propagated inflammatory and negative narratives, “stepping dangerously close to undermining the very fabric of responsible journalism.”

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The Presidency accused the media house of “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.”

While alleging that the intent of the report was to disrupt” our democratic process”, Onanuga added that “Military rule is an anachronism in modern civilisations, irrespective of its framing, due to the oppressive nature typically associated with its practice. Yet, it attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did.

“This narrative neglects the hard-fought battle that birthed our democracy and serves only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians now enjoy.”

The Presidential aide said 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, saying recent policy changes have initiated a turnaround, yielding positive economic indicators.

He quoted the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, as saying that “the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024. Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39.1 billion on October 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98% in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31% in Q1 2023.

“In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication, 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.

“Journalism—like our democracy—thrives on fairness and objectivity, and all media outlets must uphold these standards. We encourage The media House 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 to a better future.”