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Sam Omatseye, Tinubu’s Chief Propagandist: When A Journalist ‘simps’ for A Paycheck

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Popular award-winning investigative journalist David Hundeyin, on 9th August 2022 tweeted: “Must have been nice to be a Nigerian journalist in the late 80s to the 90s. You didn’t actually have to be a Giwa or a Macebuh or anything close to that.

Just lay low, write watery opinion columns for 6 years and after the military left, you’ll be hailed as a “senior journalist”

These two paragraphs represents the story of many self-acclaimed ‘senior journalists’ parading themselves in bigger than life statuses, often trying to set a precedent that projects them as national heroes because they lived and did their version of journalism through the military era which was marred with extreme levels of military induced violence, human rights abuse and suppression of the press.

Dele Giwa: Creator Of The Blueprint For True Journalism In Nigeria

 It was during this era that Nigeria’s foremost and celebrated journalist Dele Giwa, thrived and left his footprints in the sands of time. Giwa who would be killed by a letter bomb on 19th October 1986, two days after he was invited for questioning by the Department of State Service (DSS), then known as the State Security Service (SSS), was mourned as a national hero, he was just 39 years old as at the time he was killed. His killers were never found.

Talking about Giwa’s killer(s), even without a substantial amount of evidence to link the assassination to the military government of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida who was Nigeria’s Head-of-State(1985-1993), it is widely believed that the broad daylight murder which occurred in Giwa’s Ikeja home, was carried out by state operators working for the military regime of Babangida.

There has been no official statement concerning the military governments’ involvement in this hideous crime, till this day.

The most common theory is that Dele Giwa was killed because of his frequent criticism of the government and his increasing popularity locally and internationally through his exclusive weekly publication, Newswatch magazine, and his many vocal tongue-lashing of the military government.

80’s & 90’s Journalism In Nigeria

There is no doubt that the 80’s and early to mid 90’s were dangerous times for journalists in Nigeria, which provided them little to no freedom to do proper & international standard journalism as entailed.

It is worthy of note that almost every occupation in Nigeria at the time were also endangered due to the very strict, unforgiving and high-handedness of the military administration, it therefore was no excuse for one to not put in their best, as the government’s use of force was a norm in those times.

Sam Omatseye

This brings us to Sam Omatseye, a journalist who lived and worked through these times, he however was nowhere near the calibre and pedestal of the likes of Dele Giwa, Ken Saro-Wiwa or Stanley Macebuh. These were men who laid out the blueprint for journalism in Nigeria at the expense of their lives.

Journalism as a practice is one that must be carried out with neutrality. Sam Omatseye was at best a mediocre newspaper columnist who never explored the very dangerous and risky tides of true journalism, apparently for fear of his life, but isn’t that what journalism is all about? Journalism means baring the whole truth and nothing but the truth no matter the controversy it may stir or the negative vices that may suffice, that is ‘true journalism’.

A Political Tool

Sam Omatseye is a columnist and the editor of The Nation newspaper, one of Nigeria’s most widely read newspapers of the 2010’s, it’s popularity however dwindled as it became apparent to it’s reader audience that the Vintage Press product owned by former governor of Lagos State

Bola Tinubu, was riddled with bias, half-truths and deliberate attempts to malign specific significant personalities or political figures in the country who do not share their boss’s political ideologies, thus it became a political tool, one that Tinubu wielded happily using Omatseye as his wand.

Omatseye who also hosts programs on TVContinental (TVC), another media powerhouse owned by Tinubu, has used the platform to project the activities of his paymaster in positive light while making no hesitation in suppressing Tinubu’s political opponents when the need arises.

It is this obsession with suppression that led him to author an article marred with obscurity and inconspicuous elements in a bid to malign the Labour Party presidential flag bearer and favourite for the Aso Rock Top Job Peter Obi, who happens to be a huge threat to his oga’s delusional quest to become the president of Nigeria.

A Tainted Legacy

I will not glorify his article by mentioning it’s title here, but one thing that Omatseye failed to understand is that he has deliberately and on his own volition written and signed off his name on the register on the bad page of Nigeria’s history for just a few wads of dollar bills, a legacy that even his children will find hard to expunge.

A journalist presents and represents truth, that is the foundation that the practice was built on. For Omatseye to pen down a 2000 word article overrun with distasteful lies and outrightly ridiculous accusations without proof, it shows how hungry and desperate he is to get an extra paycheck from his boss.

Serial Propagandist

The Delta State indigene who was at the forefront of the movement which ridiculed Goodluck Jonathan’s second term bid, has gotten away with his vengeful, bias and baseless journalism in the past 30 years has finally met his waterloo by ‘touching’ the anointed one Peter Obi, a man who leads a movement of over 100m Nigerians, mostly youths.

Barely 24 hours after making the controversial article, he again stirred up more controversy by accusing Peter Obi of threatening his life. Appparently, an army of Obi’s loyalists who identify as OBIdients, weren’t happy with Mr. Sam’s antecedent and so they swarmed his Twitter and Facebook inbox with varying degrees of threats for trying to sabotage their principal’s efforts by attempting to associate him with purveyors of social vices.

Sam Omatseye felt he was fully prepared for battle by making that article unbeknownst to him that he may have actually started a full-fledged war with the people, one which he almost certainly won’t survive and may inadvertently lead to his own obituary.

Festus Keyamo: How Not to be A Good Lawyer. The Dubious Personality Behind A Public Enemy. Part 1

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Politics

African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest

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In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.

This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.

African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest

The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.

The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.

The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.

The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.

The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.

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Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”

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In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi: I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria.

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.

Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.

In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.

Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.

As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.

The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.

Fore more updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporteraNews.

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Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery

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Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

Youths in kano

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.

The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.

This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.

Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.

In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.

In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.

For the latest news updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporterNews. Stay informed and engaged with evolving stories from all around the world.

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