Reuben Abati: Nobody asked us to submit questions before interviewing Tinubu
By Jeffrey Agbo
Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Reuben Abati, has revealed details about the atmosphere during Monday’s media chat with President Bola Tinubu.
President Tinubu addressed Nigerians ahead of the Christmas celebrations in a session that covered critical national issues, including the size of his cabinet, the recent stampedes at palliative distributions, fuel subsidy removal, borrowing and tax reforms.
Unlike previous presidential interviews where journalists are sometimes guided or provided with pre-approved questions, Abati disclosed that this was not the case for Tinubu’s media chat.
Abati, who moderated the session and has extensive experience as a presidential spokesperson during former President Goodluck Jonathan‘s administration, emphasised the open format of the event.
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He noted that the journalists were not directed or asked to submit questions beforehand, ensuring a more spontaneous and transparent dialogue.
Speaking on Arise TV Morning Show on Tuesday, Abati said: “Nobody asked us to submit questions. President Tinubu didn’t say ‘What are you going to discuss?’
“In fact, we did not see him until he walked onto the set. I was impressed that he was in a good spirit and was ready to take on the encounter and was speaking to Nigerians. I want to recommend to his media that he should do it more regularly.”