‘We can’t give Arise TV preference over others’ – Reasons why Tinubu snubbed presidential debate revealed

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has revealed reasons why its presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, failed to honour an invitation to take part in the presidential debate organised by Arise TV.

Four candidates engaged with the organisers, audience and public in an elaborate debate that lasted till 12 midnight on Sunday. Those present were Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Kola Abiola of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Ifeanyi Okowa who represented Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

A statement by the spokesman for the campaign council, Festus Keyamo, said Mr Tinubu have earlier turned down similar invitations from other TV and radio stations, and therefore could not give preference to Arise TV.

“Firstly, many radio and TV networks in Nigeria have indicated interests to host such debates and out of deference to other TV and radio stations, our candidate will not be making selective appearances in some networks, whilst ignoring others. As President of Nigeria, by the Special Grace of God, he intends to treat all persons and businesses fairly and equally.

“Secondly, the busy and hectic campaign schedules of Asiwaju Tinubu will not permit him to honour all such invitations by different radio and TV networks, hence our decision for him not to start with one TV station and later ignore others.

“Thirdly, our candidate had long before now realised the importance of speaking directly to Nigerians and shortly after unfolding his Action Plan as President embarked on Town Hall meetings beginning with his interaction with the Business Community and other stakeholders in Kano followed by the Town Hall meeting and presentation by experts last week in Lagos.

“Tomorrow, he will be interacting with Agro and Commodity Groups in Minna, Niger State.
Whilst we thank Arise TV for the invitation, we want to assure Nigerians that we shall continue to hold these debate groups and Nigerians in high esteem. Nigerians will hear from our candidate loud and clear through other forums.

“Lastly, out of profound respect for Nigerians, we urge all our party structures and supporters at the grassroots to continue to organise town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on the Action Plan of our candidate as we believe a grassroots-approach to reach Nigerians will also be more profound,” Mr Keyamo said.