The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has threatened to take legal action over what it described as a derogatory and potentially defamatory remark made by Arise Television presenter, Rufai Oseni, about its 2027 presidential candidate, Senator Professor Sandy Onor.
The party demanded the immediate withdrawal of the alleged remark and a public apology from Oseni, warning that it would consider legal options to protect Onor’s reputation if what it described as defamatory comments continued.
The demand was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed.
The party, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, alleged that Oseni made the remark during Thursday’s edition of The Morning Show on Arise TV.
The PDP said the comment was unacceptable and had the potential to damage the reputation of its presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the party, Oseni’s co-presenter on the programme and former presidential spokesman, Dr Reuben Abati, immediately cautioned him over the potentially defamatory nature of the comment.
While acknowledging the right of journalists to scrutinise political actors and express opinions on issues of public interest, the PDP argued that such freedom should not be used to insult or ridicule political candidates.
It said the media had a responsibility to maintain professional standards, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party also cautioned the management of Arise TV against allowing its platform to be used to ridicule or disparage Onor under the guise of political commentary.
“No journalist, regardless of his platform or perceived influence, is above the law,” the PDP said.
The party urged journalists and broadcasters to exercise restraint and uphold responsible journalism in their coverage of political candidates.
It added that the demand for an apology was not an attempt to prevent legitimate scrutiny of its candidate, but a response to what it considered an unacceptable personal attack capable of damaging his reputation.
