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  …Warns That Handling of Udom, Akpabio Scandals Undermines Nigeria’s Global Reputation The Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Uyo, Prof. Peter Esuh, has criticized Nigerians and the media for their role in amplifying negative narratives about leaders, warning that such actions damage the country’s global reputation. Speaking with journalists in his office over the weekend, Esuh, a Professor of Corporate Communication, Marketing, and Applied Rhetorics, decried the increasing use of social media as a tool for public disparagement, often without regard for the far-reaching consequences. “I am deeply concerned about the way Nigerians react to issues. Traditional media have mechanisms to safeguard a country’s image, but social media has created an unchecked space where people post anything without considering its impact. The relentless criticism of leaders in Nigeria has significantly affected our international standing,” Esuh stated. He emphasized that social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook transcend national boundaries, turning local controversies into global discussions. “Many do not realize that once something is posted online, it becomes accessible worldwide. These platforms have truly made the world a global village,” he noted. Condemns Media’s Role in Udom Emmanuel’s EFCC Controversy Prof. Esuh particularly criticized how the media, including mainstream outlets, handled the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) invitation of former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel. He expressed disappointment that many journalists failed to verify facts before sensationalizing the incident. “It is regrettable that even reputable media houses misrepresented the facts. The claim that Udom Emmanuel was arrested spread rapidly, yet a simple visit to the EFCC website would have shown otherwise. There was no official report of an arrest—he was merely invited for questioning. This recklessness in journalism is concerning,” he remarked. He further urged journalists to professionally assess allegations, such as the purported mismanagement of ₦700 billion, by comparing them with the actual allocations received during Emmanuel’s administration and his achievements. “Journalists must understand the difference between investigative reporting and rumor-mongering. Proper training and discipline are essential in this profession,” he added. Faults Media Coverage of Akpabio Harassment Allegation Esuh also took issue with how the media handled the sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He argued that the media blurred the lines between sexual advancement and harassment, failing to distinguish between an isolated act and persistent, unwelcome advances. “The media failed to clarify this critical distinction, misleading the public and distorting reality. Sensationalism over facts weakens public trust in journalism,” he stated. Calls for Responsible Journalism Warning against a trend where narratives are shaped by sentiment rather than facts, Esuh stressed that irresponsible journalism damages Nigeria’s credibility in global discourse. He urged media practitioners to uphold professional ethics by prioritizing accuracy and fact-based reporting over sensationalism. “We must protect our national dignity. Journalists have a duty to inform the public responsibly. Professional integrity should never be sacrificed for viral headlines,” he concluded.    

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, has approved the appointment of some officials as delivery advisors on projects based on their institutional knowledge of the projects. According to the SSG, Prince Enobong Uwah, they are to ensure that all projects within their portfolio are delivered according to specifications and within and within the approved timeliness. The appointment takes immediate effect.

In an endeavor to enhance transparency in Nigeria’s mining industry, the federal government has canceled 924 inactive licenses across exploration, mining, small-scale mining, and quarrying sectors. The revocation was announced by Mr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, during a press conference held on Wednesday. He stated that in compliance with the constitutional guidelines, sufficient notification was provided to relevant parties via the official Gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, No. 227, issued on December 27, 2023. He said, “The notice gave all concerned parties 30 days to regularise their status, including clarifications on what caused the license to be dormant. Thus, although a total of 963 licensees were published and notified of the threat of revocation, no fewer than 39 either moved to the site immediately or convinced the authorities of the challenges hindering their operations”,

During an interview on TVC News Sunday Politics, Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, offered assurances that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is fortified against the influence of cabals, a concern that has plagued previous administrations. Ngelale underscored Tinubu’s professional credentials as a seasoned accountant and auditor, highlighting his deep understanding of governance mechanisms at both federal and sub-national levels. He emphasized Tinubu’s accessibility, stating that no individual within the Presidency holds a monopoly over the information reaching the President. According to Ngelale, Tinubu maintains direct communication with key stakeholders such as heads of intelligence agencies and anti-graft bodies, ensuring a transparent and inclusive decision-making process. Ngelale’s remarks suggest Tinubu’s determination to prevent the formation of cabals, drawing on lessons from past administrations. Tinubu’s administration appears committed to fostering transparency and accountability, aiming to avoid the pitfalls of centralized power and promote a more participatory approach to governance.

Customs Chief Adewale Adeniyi addressed the issue during a meeting in Katsina yesterday, engaging with residents from border communities at Kongolam and Mai’Adua border stations. He conveyed President Tinubu’s extraordinary decision, highlighting that it deviates from legal protocols, yet underscores Tinubu’s profound generosity towards Nigeria. Adeniyi elaborated, stating, “In doing so, he has directed that those food items that were intended for export but seized in various border areas should be returned to their rightful owners under the condition that these goods would be made available for sale within Nigerian markets.” He stressed the importance of compliance, affirming, “So, we will be closely monitoring to ensure there is no violation of this directive. The seized food items will be returned, and they must be reintroduced into the Nigerian markets in adherence to this directive.” This detailed explanation from Adeniyi provides clarity on the implementation of President Tinubu’s directive regarding the seized food items at the border.

The Presidency, in a statement on Sunday, asserted that the recent wave of kidnappings across the country is part of a coordinated effort by certain regional factions aimed at destabilizing President Bola Tinubu’s government. During an appearance on TVC’s Politics show hosted by Mr. Femi Akande, Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, highlighted this allegation. Ngelale stated, “We are aware that various sub-regional geopolitical forces in the north are actively plotting against Nigeria’s stability.” He emphasized the government’s proactive response to the situation, mentioning collaboration with the United States to rescue kidnapped schoolchildren in Kaduna and address local insurgent groups. “We are vigilant and mobilizing efforts, not only domestically but also internationally, to apprehend and silence regional actors involved in conspiracies against our nation,” Ngelale added.