In a recent interview on TVC News, Adewale Adeoye, Executive Director of Journalists for Democratic Rights (JODER), spoke on political communication, public perception, and the role of advisers in shaping the messaging of political leaders ahead of Nigeria’s future elections.…....
During the interview, Adeoye stated, “I don’t think Obi has time to watch television, so advisers need to guide him on what to say.” He made the remark while discussing the communication strategy surrounding Peter Obi and how political figures manage public statements in a highly sensitive media environment.
Adeoye explained that in modern politics, public figures often rely heavily on advisers and communication teams to ensure consistency in messaging and to avoid misunderstandings that may arise from spontaneous statements or media interpretations. According to him, effective political communication is essential for maintaining credibility and public trust.
He further noted that the intensity of Nigeria’s political landscape requires leaders to be deliberate in their public engagements, especially when addressing national issues or responding to controversial topics. He argued that advisers play a critical role in shaping how leaders are perceived by the public.
Adeoye also stressed the importance of media literacy among political actors, saying that leaders must be aware of how their statements are received across different platforms, including television, social media, and traditional news outlets.
He added that opposition figures like Obi continue to attract national attention, making communication strategy even more important as political activities intensify ahead of future elections.
He concluded by urging political stakeholders to prioritize professionalism, strategic communication, and responsible messaging in order to strengthen democratic discourse and reduce unnecessary political tensions.
