The Guardian newspaper has strongly denied accusations by the presidency that it was attempting to incite unrest and advocate regime change through its recent reporting on Nigeria’s economic situation.
The denial comes in response to allegations made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, who on October 26 criticized the newspaper’s lead story titled “Misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices.”
In a detailed statement, The Guardian’s management described the presidency’s accusations as “a patent misrepresentation,” emphasizing that the controversial article was “a factually balanced, dispassionate, well-researched and intensive report” examining Nigeria’s civilian administration from its inception to the present.
“There is nothing in the report that advocates, propagates, endorses or suggests a military overthrow of the current government, as suggested by the Special Adviser,” the newspaper stated.
The Guardian, which has operated for over 40 years, reaffirmed its commitment to journalistic independence, citing its constitutional role under Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution to “uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.”
The newspaper pointed to its history of opposing military rule, noting it had previously faced “unlawful detention and imprisonment of its journalists, arson attempt on its premises, and assassination attempt on its founding publisher.”
The publication defended its reporting as an effort to highlight citizens’ concerns about the state of the nation, referencing President Tinubu’s campaign promises to address Nigerians’ concerns and provide “true and innovative solutions.”
“The Guardian is unapologetically pro-good governance and will continue to advocate national prosperity,” the statement concluded, emphasising the newspaper’s commitment to responsible journalism while maintaining its watchdog role in society.
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