Reuben Abati Breaks Silence: “I Never Begged Wike for Money”

Veteran journalist and broadcaster, Dr. Reuben Abati, has issued a strong rebuttal to statements made by Lere Olayinka during an appearance on Arise News’ The Morning Show on Friday, June 6, 2025. The response, shared on Saturday, June 7, firmly addresses several claims made by Olayinka, whom Abati described as “a proxy, not a peer.”

In the detailed statement, Dr. Abati refuted allegations that he once begged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for money, stating unequivocally:

“I have never approached Minister Nyesom Wike to beg for money — that is a lie. If anyone — including an ex-partner — went to him under false pretences to solicit funds in my name, I place a clear disclaimer.”

Abati also clarified his past interaction with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stating that while he was once invited for questioning, it was a lawful and procedural engagement:

“At no time was I asked to return any money. In fact, the EFCC under former Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, later issued an apology to me.”

Chiding Olayinka’s misuse of the word “hubris,” Abati remarked:

“A basic dictionary reference would have sufficed. I will not indulge further in responding to him directly; he is not my peer.”

Addressing another accusation, Abati denied having any professional ties to Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation:
“I am not Rotimi Amaechi’s spokesperson, nor do I have his phone number. That’s a fabrication.”

Explaining his absence from the June 6 edition of The Morning Show, Abati clarified that he was engaged at a pre-scheduled book review for “Oprah Benson – Life and Legend,” a 5,550-page work by Dr. Udu Yakubu:

“It was an honourable intellectual commitment,” he said.

Reaffirming his critical stance on public figures, Abati stood by his previous remarks on Minister Wike:

“He is a public official occupying a public office. He is, and should remain, subject to public scrutiny. Nobody in public service is above accountability.”

On the mention of late politician Buruji Kashamu, Abati cautioned against media trial of the dead:

“The allegations against him were never proven in any court of law. Persisting in amplifying unproven accusations against the deceased is in poor taste and ethically questionable.”

He concluded by expressing appreciation for his team — Rufai Oseni, Vimbai, and the Morning Show crew, and paid tribute to his wife, Kikelomo Atanda-Owo Abati, stating:

“Your strength remains my anchor.”

Reuben Abati ended his statement with a call for “true transparency, integrity, and boldness” in public discourse, reasserting his commitment to intellectual honesty and professional journalism.