Reuben Abati, former presidential spokesperson and co-host of Arise TV's The Morning Show, has categorically denied allegations that he and his wife solicited financial assistance from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The controversy erupted after Lere Olayinka, media aide to Minister Wike, made several claims during Friday's episode of The Morning Show, where Abati was notably absent.
Allegations and Counter-Claims
During the broadcast, Olayinka accused Abati of being a supporter of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, suggesting that Abati's absence from the program was a management decision due to his alleged bias. This claim was immediately contested by co-host Rufai Oseni, who provided a different explanation for Abati's absence.
Olayinka further alleged that Abati and his wife were among those who had approached Wike for financial assistance, a claim that has prompted a strong rebuttal from the former presidential spokesperson.
"I have never approached Minister Nyesom Wike to beg for money. That is a lie. If anyone including an ex-partner went to him under false pretences to solicit funds in my name, I place a clear disclaimer."
Abati emphasized that any such actions were not authorized by him, and that Minister Wike has every right to call out such behavior as fraudulent.
Clarifying Political Affiliations
In his statement, Abati also addressed allegations regarding his relationship with former Rivers Governor Amaechi, stating: "I am not Rotimi Amaechi's spokesperson, nor do I have his phone number. That's a fabrication."
Regarding his absence from The Morning Show on Friday, Abati explained he was fulfilling a pre-scheduled commitment to review "Oprah Benson Live and Legend," a 550-page publication by Dr. Udu Yakubu, which he described as "an honourable intellectual commitment."
Standing Firm on Public Accountability
Abati described Olayinka's suggestion that he resign from his media position to become Amaechi's spokesperson as inappropriate. He maintained his position regarding Minister Wike's public accountability:
"I stand firmly by everything I said regarding Minister Wike. He is a public official occupying a public office. He is, and should remain, subject to public scrutiny. Nobody in public service is above accountability."
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between media personalities and political figures in Nigeria's complex political landscape, where allegations of bias and impropriety often surface during public disagreements.
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