By Our Reporter
The House of Representatives has given Arise News and former Presidential Adviser, Reuben Abati, 24 hours to apologize for comments about its activities, warning of possible consequences if the apology is not forthcoming.
The demand came after a member of the House, Donald Ojogo, raised the issue under matters of privilege, claiming that his rights and those of other lawmakers were violated by Abati’s remarks regarding the proposal for state creation.
Ojogo, who represents Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency, cited Order 6, Rules 1, 2, 3, and 5 of the House’s Standing Orders in his statement. He emphasized that the House of Representatives, led by the Speaker, is not just another governmental body but represents the power vested by the Nigerian people.
Referring to an announcement made by the Deputy Speaker last Thursday regarding state creation proposals received from Nigerians, Ojogo clarified that it was merely an announcement, not a proposal or bill initiated by the House. Unfortunately, the announcement was misrepresented and taken out of context, causing various reactions.
Ojogo singled out Abati’s comments, which he described as a breach of decorum and journalistic ethics. Abati, in a viral video, had referred to the House of Representatives as “stupid” and “idiotic,” which Ojogo condemned as unfounded and offensive, further undermining the House’s integrity.
Ojogo also pointed out that Abati’s remarks were based on a cover story in ThisDay newspaper, a media outlet affiliated with Arise News. He criticized the comments as arrogant, factually incorrect, and a violation of professional conduct.
While acknowledging the importance of free speech and press freedom, Ojogo emphasized that such rights should not be abused to spread falsehoods, distort facts, or engage in disrespectful behavior in the public domain.