Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni, anchors at Arise TV, have recently come under intense scrutiny following critical remarks and controversies. Notably, Lere Olayinka, an aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, publicly criticized Abati for seemingly acting as spokesperson for former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi during a television appearance.
This sparked further calls from some quarters demanding that Arise TV replace Abati, citing his past involvement in a case with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a major concern.
In response to these calls, Umar Sani, spokesperson for the PDP’s 2019 presidential campaign, issued a sharp rebuttal to the allegations against Abati.
On his X account, Sani clarified that the EFCC case involving Abati was “dead on arrival,” explaining that the controversy stemmed from former President Buhari’s broad categorization of all recipients of funds from the Office of the National Security Adviser as looters.
However, Sani emphasized that the N50 million Abati received was from President Jonathan’s security vote and was meant for public relations activities during the Christmas season, specifically to engage journalists.
Sani further highlighted that Abati provided proof of fulfilling this presidential directive responsibly and in good faith.
He noted that being invited for questioning or even detained by the EFCC does not equate to being a criminal or convict, pointing out that Abati had even contested for Deputy Governor of Ogun State without any petition against him.
Sani praised Abati’s journalistic skills and experience, urging Arise TV owner Nduka Obaigbena to retain him, stating, “His skills and experience in journalism remain valuable, especially in today’s media landscape.”
Sani’s response directly countered these narratives, defending both journalists’ professional integrity and contributions to the media.
