A heated exchange between Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni and Lere Olayinka, spokesperson for FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, erupted during a live broadcast, drawing national attention and sparking widespread debate on social media.
The clash occurred during a discussion on the Federal Capital Territory’s ongoing demolition exercise. Oseni, known for his probing interview style, referred to Olayinka and his team as “you guys” while questioning the demolition policy. Olayinka fired back, labeling the phrase as “insulting” and disrespectful…….CONTINUE READING
In response to Olayinka’s protests, Oseni stood his ground, stating, “You can’t come here and teach me my job.” Olayinka escalated the exchange by questioning Oseni’s journalism background and asserting seniority in the media industry, saying:
“I’m your senior in this job… you’re not one of us.”
This implied criticism of Oseni’s qualifications fueled public speculation about the legitimacy of his journalism degree and professional standing.
The altercation has since gone viral, with Nigerians taking to social media to weigh in. Some viewers praised Oseni for holding public figures accountable, while others sided with Olayinka, accusing the anchor of lacking professional decorum.
The clash reignites conversations about professionalism, press freedom, and the tension between journalists and political appointees in Nigeria. Observers have called for more civility and mutual respect during public debates, especially on national platforms.
As the dust settles from this high-profile confrontation, both Rufai Oseni and Lere Olayinka remain at the center of a broader discourse on media ethics and the role of journalists in Nigerian democracy.
