Atiku Abubakar Accuses Tinubu of Propaganda Amid Media Aide Appointments
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns about President Bola Tinubu’s recent appointments of media aides.
Atiku suggests that Tinubu is expanding his media team to bolster propaganda efforts and improve his image among Nigerians.
However, Atiku emphasizes that even if Tinubu were to hire a thousand media aides, it would not be sufficient to salvage his reputation.
Allegations of Propaganda and Cover-Up
In response to President Tinubu’s announcement of new media aides, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, issued a statement. Shaibu alleges that these appointments serve as confirmation of his earlier disclosure regarding Tinubu’s plans to unleash propaganda.
He contends that President Tinubu is attempting to divert attention from controversies surrounding his academic records and other scandals, particularly those in the United States.
Details of Recent Appointments
President Tinubu recently unveiled his new media appointments, which include individuals holding various roles in media and communication.
The appointments comprise Mr. Fela Durotoye (Senior Special Assistant to the President — National Values & Social Justice), Mr. Fredrick Nwabufo (Senior Special Assistant to the President — Public Engagement), Mrs. Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe (Senior Special Assistant to the President — Strategic Communications), Mr. Aliyu Audu (Special Assistant to the President — Public Affairs), and Mr. Francis Adah Abah (Personal Assistant to the President — Special Duties).
Atiku’s Response to Media Appointments
Atiku’s aide, Phrank Shaibu, contends that the new appointments are part of President Tinubu’s strategy to set up a propaganda unit within his government.
He highlights the significance of these appointments, particularly in light of a certificate forgery scandal and other challenges facing Tinubu’s administration.
Shaibu questions the government’s focus on media advisers, noting that it raises concerns about the government’s priorities.
Propaganda vs. Governance
Shaibu asserts that President Tinubu’s government has appointed a significant number of non-statutory positions, including media advisers, despite claiming to prioritize fiscal discipline.
He underscores the administration’s focus on propaganda as a means of rule.
Shaibu also points out the infrequency of cabinet meetings, indicating a reliance on propaganda over substantive governance.
Challenges to Reputation
In the midst of these developments, Atiku’s aide emphasizes that no amount of image laundering or propaganda can salvage President Tinubu’s sinking reputation.
Shaibu underscores the government’s challenges, including a certificate forgery scandal and potential revelations from the FBI regarding a heroin case in the United States.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, Atiku’s aide likens the government’s reliance on propaganda to the character Squealer in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm.”
He suggests that propaganda alone cannot address crucial issues such as poverty, infrastructure, insecurity, or foreign investment.
While media appointments may increase the government’s media presence on paper, they do not address the fundamental needs of the population.