Reuben Abati began his rebuttal with an unflinching denial of the accusation that he had ever approached Minister Nyesom Wike to solicit funds. “That is a lie,” he stated in a meticulously worded statement released after the Friday, June 6, 2025 episode of The Morning Show. According to him, if any individual—partner or otherwise—used his name to beg Wike for money, that action was completely unauthorized and tantamount to fraud. He urged Wike to publicly call out any such individual attempting to leverage his reputation under false pretenses.
Reuben Abati went further to clarify that he had never had any formal or informal relationship with Wike that would warrant such a request. “I have not and will not reduce myself to that level,” he emphasized. The media personality, known for his intellectualism and composed demeanor, used the opportunity to distance himself from insinuations linking him to political sycophancy. His firm tone portrayed the seriousness with which he treats personal integrity, especially in Nigeria’s politically charged media landscape.
Reuben Abati Refutes Rotimi Amaechi Link: “I’m Not His Spokesman”
Reuben Abati categorically denied claims suggesting an alliance with former Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, stating, “I am not Rotimi Amaechi’s spokesperson, nor do I have his phone number.” This came as a direct refutation to Lere Olayinka’s claims on national television, implying Abati may be operating as a surrogate voice for Amaechi in a proxy war against Nyesom Wike. Abati dismissed such assertions as “fabrications,” questioning their logic and provenance.
Reuben Abati expressed concern over the dangerous practice of lumping media professionals into political camps without credible evidence. He stated that his journalistic principles are independent of political affiliations, and accused Olayinka of attempting to drag his name into a contrived narrative. “This is not journalism,” Abati insisted, “it is political mischief masquerading as insight.” His tone underscored the growing tension between media practitioners and politically exposed persons who attempt to weaponize the press.
Reuben Abati Questions Lere Olayinka’s Verbal Missteps: “Hubris? He Misused the Word”
Reuben Abati didn’t mince words in his response to Lere Olayinka’s linguistic jab. “Lere Olayinka clearly misused the word ‘hubris,’” Abati said, dismissing the term as a desperate attempt to sound intellectual without substance. He mocked Olayinka’s choice of vocabulary, pointing out that even a cursory glance at a dictionary would reveal its inappropriate usage in context. It was a subtle yet sharp critique of the growing trend of pseudo-intellectualism in Nigerian political commentary.
Reuben Abati declared that he would not “indulge further” with Olayinka, whom he described as “not my peer.” By shifting focus from the surrogate to the principal, Abati set the tone for a more substantive political debate. “I await a more meaningful conversation—if any—from his principal, not his proxy,” he said, signaling his refusal to be baited into mudslinging. The seasoned broadcaster repositioned the narrative, emphasizing depth and intellect over verbal skirmishes.
Reuben Abati Clarifies EFCC Episode: “They Later Apologized to Me”
Reuben Abati addressed public curiosity about his past interactions with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stating clearly, “Like many others, I was invited for questioning—a lawful and procedural engagement.” He disclosed that contrary to social media insinuations, he was never asked to refund any money and that the EFCC, under the leadership of then-chairman Ibrahim Magu, eventually offered him an apology. This, he said, was emblematic of the often-misunderstood nature of investigatory processes.
Reuben Abati emphasized that the EFCC experience was not an indictment but a clarifying process. By sharing this detail, he sought to separate fact from fiction and remind viewers that due process should not be mistaken for guilt. His transparency served to counter a growing culture of digital defamation, where mere questioning by authorities is wrongly weaponized as proof of corruption or misconduct.
Reuben Abati Affirms Integrity: “Public Officials Must Be Scrutinized”
Reuben Abati reasserted his right—and duty—as a journalist to critique public officials, stating, “Minister Wike is a public official occupying a public office. He is, and should remain, subject to public scrutiny.” He maintained that his comments about Wike were within the bounds of democratic accountability and were not motivated by personal animosity or hidden agendas. According to Abati, holding leaders accountable is the very essence of journalism and civic duty.
Reuben Abati also explained his absence from the June 6 broadcast, noting that it was due to a prior intellectual commitment—the review of a 550-page book titled Oprah Benson – Live and Legend by Dr. Udu Yakubu. “It was an honourable intellectual commitment,” he said, subtly contrasting it with the petty drama playing out on air. His insistence on decorum and focus positioned him as a voice of reason in the increasingly charged political-media ecosystem.
Reuben Abati Condemns Posthumous Smearing: “Kashamu Was Never Convicted”
Reuben Abati took the opportunity to defend the legacy of the late Senator Buruji Kashamu, asserting that no allegations against him were ever proven in any court of law. “Until his death, he was never convicted of any crime, either in Nigeria or abroad,” Abati stressed. This, he argued, should guide the tone and content of any public discourse about the deceased. To continue spreading unproven allegations, he said, is not only ethically questionable but also a disservice to the principles of justice.
Reuben Abati concluded his statement with expressions of gratitude. He praised his team at Arise News—particularly Rufai Oseni and Vimbai—for their professionalism and poise amidst rising tensions. He also thanked his wife, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo Abati, calling her “my anchor.” His final note was a prayer for Nigeria: “May God bless Nigeria with true transparency, integrity, and boldness in public discourse.” A fitting benediction to a week marked by accusation, revelation, and reflection.
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