The Coalition of Independent Online Media Platforms has expressed concern over what it described as an emerging trend of blackmail, propaganda, and unprofessional conduct among some members of the National Assembly.
Chairman of the coalition, Jimoh Olubade, disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja on Sunday.
Olubade warn that such actions threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
He alleged that certain lawmakers have abandoned their constitutional duties of lawmaking and constructive oversight, instead resorting to intimidation of government appointees who refuse to yield to their demands.
The coalition accused some legislators of misusing their oversight powers to either shield or attack public officials for personal gain.
He cited the case of Hon. Philip Agbese, who allegedly attempted to exonerate former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, from ongoing corruption charges despite the matter being before a competent court.
“It was inappropriate for a serving lawmaker to publicly pronounce someone innocent while the court process is ongoing.
“This undermines the rule of law and weakens public confidence in judicial processes,” he said.
He alleged that government officials who have resisted pressure from certain legislators have become targets of smear campaigns.
Among those reportedly affected are Zamfara State Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal, Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, and Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. Ibrahim Gaidam.
“These individuals have been subjected to coordinated online attacks simply because they refused to succumb to blackmail,” the coalition claimed.
He also criticised the conduct of some online media outlets, singling out Sahara Reporters for allegedly publishing false and misleading information.
It referenced a recent report claiming that Minister Nyesom Wike was absent from a Council of State meeting, describing it as “false and unprofessional.”
“Sahara Reporters should know that Wike is not a member of the Council of State and therefore could not have attended the meeting. The report was clearly designed to mislead the public,” the coalition stated.
While urging journalists to uphold the ethics of accuracy and verification, the he reaffirmed its commitment to transparency in governance.
“We emphasise the need for responsible journalism and credible fact-checking. Those with verifiable evidence of corruption among government appointees should come forward.
“We will support their efforts to ensure accountability,” he said.
He called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against lawmakers and individuals engaged in acts of blackmail and misinformation, regardless of their political affiliations.
