HURIWA Urges President Tinubu To Replace Bayo Onanuga As Presidential Spokesman.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has called on President Bola Tinubu to consider replacing his Special Adviser on Strategy and Information, Bayo Onanuga.
In a statement released on Saturday, HURIWA criticised Onanuga’s recent remarks, suggesting he lacks the qualities necessary for the role and accusing him of frequent “misinterpretation” in his statements.
HURIWA’s concerns stem from Onanuga’s response to a recent *Guardian* article that highlighted Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic issues, including poverty and inflation. According to HURIWA, Onanuga misrepresented the article by suggesting it implied support for a military intervention in response to public discontent. The rights group described his interpretation as “deliberate mischief,” arguing that it failed to reflect the true concerns of the Nigerian populace.
Additionally, HURIWA condemned Onanuga’s support of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who has faced allegations of financial misconduct. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared Bello wanted in April 2024 over accusations of embezzling N80.2 billion. Despite court summonses, Bello has allegedly avoided arrest with the help of political allies. HURIWA argued that Onanuga’s defence of Bello undermines the rule of law, clarifying that immunity provisions for certain public offices do not extend to individuals hiding in government houses.
In its statement, HURIWA urged Tinubu to appoint a media spokesman who would approach sensitive issues with a more reflective and professional outlook. It emphasised the importance of transparent and accurate communication from the president’s office, especially in matters affecting Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
