Kamsiyochukwu Mbamalu
By Kamsiyochukwu Mbamalu
A diplomat and boardroom veteran, Joe Keshi, has accused the Nigerian media of being complicit in unleashing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Nigerians. Keshi expressed frustration over the media’s alleged practice of giving Wike unchecked platform to abuse and disparage political opponents, rather than focusing on issues affecting his job as FCT minister.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMr Keshi says he is not against Wike granting press briefings from time to time, but such interviews should border on the Federal Capital Territory and his job as minister and public servant.
“Wike is not the spokesman of Mr President or the secretary of PDP. He is not even a founding member of the PDP because he was too young to participate in the founding of the party in 1998.”
Media Should Uphold Its Dignity
In a chat with Prime Business Africa, Keshi questioned the motives behind the media’s actions or inactions in taming Wike’s vituperations and the excursion into extraneous political matters which tend to suggest that they might be receiving payment at public expense to promote Wike’s agenda. He urged the media to stop what he described as “nonsense” and uphold its dignity by limiting Wike’s media appearances to his responsibilities as FCT minister.
Enough is Enough
Keshi emphasized that Wike’s interviews often stray from discussing FCT-related issues to attacking political opponents, without giving them equal opportunities to respond. He called on the media to spare Nigerians the pain of Wike’s verbal attacks, stressing that enough is enough.
Implications for Media Freedom
Keshi’s comments raise important questions about media freedom and responsibility in Nigeria. As a watchdog of government actions, the media plays a crucial role in holding public officials accountable. However, the alleged complicity in promoting Wike’s agenda undermines the media’s credibility and raises concerns about its independence.
