Wike’s Aide Slams Reuben Abati, Suggests He Resign from Arise TV

The media aide to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taken aim at Arise TV anchor Reuben Abati, accusing him of bias and urging him to resign his role as a broadcaster.

Lere Olayinka, who appeared on Arise TV, criticised Abati for comments made against his principal, following a verbal exchange between Wike and his predecessor, former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi. The controversy began after Amaechi, during his 60th birthday celebration, remarked that millions of Nigerians—including himself—are hungry, and that President Bola Tinubu could be voted out in 2027 with opposition support.

Wike had swiftly responded, calling Amaechi’s remarks “politically motivated” and questioning how someone who had occupied several positions of influence for two decades could claim to be hungry.

Days later, Reuben Abati weighed in, condemning Wike’s comments and labeling them as “disrespectful” to a political figure who once played a significant role in his rise. The statement did not sit well with Olayinka.

Reacting live on Arise TV, Olayinka said:

“I was shocked to hear Reuben Abati turn himself into Amaechi’s spokesperson. Since he has assumed that role, he should excuse himself from Arise TV and go do the job properly.”

He further alleged that Abati had shown unprofessional conduct by taking sides on a matter involving two political heavyweights and questioned why the anchor no longer held Wike in the same regard he once did.

Olayinka also commended the network’s management for allegedly keeping Abati off the morning show during his own appearance. However, this claim was immediately addressed by co-host Rufai Oseni, who clarified that Abati was absent due to health reasons, not because of any internal directive.

“Let’s set the record straight,” Oseni interjected. “Reuben called in sick. There was no order asking him to stay off the show.”

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