Presidency Warns Media Over Coup Reports, Says Rumours Harm Economy, Investor Confidence
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the presidency has cautioned the Nigerian media against spreading unverified reports about alleged coup plots, warning that such stories are damaging the nation’s economy and undermining investor confidence.
OTN News further reports that the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, speaking on Arise News’ Prime Time programme on Thursday night, said that speculative reporting on national security matters could tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation and frighten away potential investors.
According to him, when a country is looking for investment and the media are shouting ‘coup attempt,’ it scares investors away.
"Stories like that can destroy the country’s reputation and economy. We need to wait for facts, evidence, not rumours,” Onanuga said.
He appealed for restraint among journalists and the general public, urging them to allow official investigations to conclude before publishing or sharing sensitive information.
Furthermore, Onanuga explained that while the military had confirmed ongoing investigations involving certain officers, no credible evidence had emerged to suggest a plot to overthrow the government.
“Leaping to conclusions before official confirmation portends grave national consequences,” he warned.
The presidential aide also criticized what he described as a “growing appetite for sensationalism and online traffic,” saying some media platforms prioritize attention and clicks over national interest.
“Some media outlets ran with the story for clicks and attention. But as patriotic Nigerians, we must know that what we report has implications for our economy and stability,” he stated.
Onanuga acknowledged public skepticism toward government institutions but maintained that distrust should not justify the publication of unsubstantiated claims.
“It’s true people don’t always trust government, that happens everywhere, but the media also have a social responsibility to be cautious and wait for facts,” he said.
OTN News observes that his remarks followed an October 19 report by Sahara Reporters alleging that some military officers were plotting to topple the government.
The Defence Headquarters quickly dismissed the claim as false.
Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, clarified that the reported arrests within the military were related to “issues of indiscipline,” not a coup attempt.
He described the media report as “intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
Gusau reiterated the military’s commitment to democracy and constitutional order, urging Nigerians to ignore politically motivated rumours.
“The military remains loyal to the constitution and committed to the preservation of democratic governance,” the Defence Headquarters said in a statement.
The Presidency, meanwhile, emphasized that responsible journalism is vital to safeguarding national stability, economic growth, and Nigeria’s global reputation.
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