How I narrowly missed being punched by Obasanjo, Nigerian journalist recalls experience
- Olusegun Obasanjo, the former President of Nigeria, has been said to have made an attempt to punch a senior journalist, Azu Ishiekwene
- Ishiekwene, the Editor-in-chief of Leadership Newspapers, gave the account after participating in the maiden media chat with President Bola Tinubu
- The journalist gave two different experiences with Obasanjo and disclosed that Tinubu’s interview was a recorded one
Azu Ishiekwene, the Editor-in-chief of Leadership Newspapers, recently shared a fascinating story about his encounter with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. According to Ishiekwene, he narrowly missed being punched by Obasanjo during an untelevised interview in 2004.
Obasanjo’s outburst was caused by Ishiekwene’s question about why the government was allowing a political outlaw, Chris Uba, to wreak havoc in Anambra State. Fortunately, presidential aides Remi Oyo and Julius Ihonbvere’s timely intervention saved Ishiekwene from Obasanjo’s wrath.
Journalist narrates how he escapes from Obasanjo’s punch
Photo Credit: @Oolusegun_objSource: Twitter
Ishiekwene’s experience with Obasanjo wasn’t an isolated incident. He also faced the former president’s ire during a live presidential media chat. When Ishiekwene asked Obasanjo about his order for a shoot-on-sight against members of the militant Yoruba self-determination group Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Obasanjo became livid. He warned Ishiekwene that he would be thrown out of the panel if he continued to ask impertinent questions.
What journalists encountered with Obasanjo is
According to Vanguard, Ishiekwene’s encounter with Obasanjo is a testament to the former president’s reputation for being unpredictable and fiery. Despite his challenges, Ishiekwene remained professional and continued asking tough questions. His experience serves as a reminder of the importance of a free press in holding those in power accountable.
In addition to his encounter with Obasanjo, Ishiekwene also shared his experience of interviewing President Bola Tinubu. Ishiekwene was part of a team of eight journalists who anchored the maiden Presidential Media Chat with Tinubu. He noted that the interview was recorded rather than live, which sparked some controversy among viewers.
Ishiekwene’s story highlights the challenges and risks that journalists face when interviewing powerful figures. Despite these challenges, Ishiekwene remains committed to asking tough questions and holding those in power accountable. His experience reminds us of the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society.
Source: TheTalk.NG
