Allegations of Media Gagging as Release of FBI Files Looms.
The political landscape in Nigeria is becoming increasingly contentious as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, has made startling allegations regarding the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Shaibu claims that the Tinubu-led government is orchestrating a scheme to stifle media freedom, particularly in anticipation of the release of records containing FBI investigations.
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In a statement released on Sunday, Shaibu expressed concerns about the recent threat by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction Arise Television News, asserting that this was merely the beginning of a more extensive effort to control the media landscape.
Shaibu pointed out that the NBC has been closely monitoring media platforms, such as Television Continental (TVC), which he alleges have consistently launched attacks on Atiku while refusing to provide a platform for opposing viewpoints.
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According to Shaibu, the Tinubu administration has grown increasingly frustrated with the Chicago State University scandal and is planning a significant offensive in the coming days to address the issue.
He stated, “Back in February, the NBC attempted to display a semblance of fairness by imposing fines on TVC for unprofessional broadcasts. This included the airing of the Joint Media Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council press briefing, during which Festus Keyamo accused Obasanjo and Atiku of running a criminal enterprise and an empire of fraud in Abuja.
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However, Shaibu contends that since Tinubu assumed the presidency on May 29, the NBC has exhibited even more partisan behavior. He suggested that NBC’s Director-General, Balarabe Ilelah, is seemingly aligning himself with the APC’s interests and those of the Presidential Villa.
Shaibu went on to claim that the NBC has now been co-opted into a broader plan to suppress the media concerning Tinubu’s certificate scandal. He accused the government of resorting to state power to silence the media after losing the battle in the court of public opinion. He expressed disappointment in Tinubu’s approach, given his claim to be a hero of the June 12 struggle.
Shaibu emphasized that this is not the time for Nigerian media to exhibit any signs of weakness. He underscored the importance of the media’s role as the society’s watchdog, as enshrined in Section 22 of the 1999 constitution.
He concluded by asserting that the impending release of FBI documents this month will unveil the details of the investigation into Tinubu. Shaibu called upon the media to rise to the occasion and fulfill its crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in Nigerian society.
