Arise TV Interview Sparks Heated Debate as X Users Weigh In on Rufai Oseni, Lere Olayinka Clash

An Arise TV interview involving FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, and television anchor Rufai Oseni has sparked a heated debate on X after the session reportedly ended abruptly amid a disagreement over the questions being asked.

Olayinka reportedly refused to answer questions from Oseni, saying he wanted the conversation to be held among “reasonable human beings” and objecting to Oseni’s previous description of someone as “Gbewudani.”

The incident quickly generated reactions online, with X users taking different positions on the confrontation, the conduct of the guest, the anchor and the television station.

Habibu Mohammed, @mohdhabibu, criticised Olayinka’s decision to participate in the programme despite knowing Oseni was among the anchors.

“That was very irresponsible of a TV guest to display on live program. He should have excuse himself the moment he understand Rufai is among the anchors.”

Adare Ayodeji FCA, @opel007, also directed criticism at Arise TV, arguing that the station should have maintained higher professional standards.

“Arise tv should act more professionally. In the days of the military can their anchor ask questions of this nature?”

He accused the station of condoning what he described as “recklessness and unprofessional conduct” by its anchors.

Another user, @TopmanIamb, criticised Olayinka’s response to the situation, describing his comments as excessive.

“Such uncouth and outrageous assertion, bereft of common sense. This man is always overwhelmed by his emotions.”

The user also referenced previous controversies involving political figures and media personalities.

@Enejetal, however, blamed Arise TV for inviting Olayinka onto the programme, while making allegations against him that were not independently established in the post.

“@ARISEtv was at fault to invite a criminal … to discuss national issues on national platform like thiers.”

Oluwa Igah, @OluwalIgah, provided another perspective by pointing out that fellow anchor Reuben Abati had reportedly challenged Oseni during the exchange.

“But he should know that Mr Reuben Abati rebuked Rufai immediately when he made that assertion. Rufai was asked to withdraw that remark which he declined.”

For @olaolatunjii, the confrontation appeared to be connected to existing political differences.

“Tit for tat. Just because of political difference u called someone gbewudani, definitely u should not expect good energy frm them.”

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The user also criticised Oseni’s handling of disagreements with people who hold opposing views.

Justt Prisca, @JusttPrisca, offered a more neutral assessment of the outcome.

“This interview ended before it even started. The questions apparently became the problem.”

Kwanmkwam, @JudeChukwudindu, was more critical of Olayinka, describing his behaviour as inappropriate.

“He was uncultured, crude, and immature. I love the way they chased him out of that session.”

However, several users defended Olayinka or raised concerns about Oseni’s approach.

Babtunde Ayodele, @Bodaley_Yodel, praised Arise TV’s panel format but suggested that Oseni could have approached the exchange differently.

“I love Arise TV, the 3 anchors of the programme are working as a team which suppose to be irrespective of internal disagreement among them. But Rufai should thread softly though he’s blunt.”

Meanwhile, @Tpumpin defended the anchors and criticised politicians for what the user described as a tendency to resist tough questioning.

“Ayo is a super woman, these politicians sees everybody as beneath them, they don’t listen, they use all weapons to shutdown every agitation.”

Another reaction from @gbengagiwa_gg raised questions about Oseni’s continued presence on the programme, while making speculation about his relationship with the station.

“I think either Rufai has a share in @ARISEtv or cannot be sacked because of the possibility of having something that cannot be disclosed on The Duke, Chief Nduka Obaigena.”

The reactions show that the incident has not produced a clear consensus. Some viewers believe Olayinka crossed the line by refusing to engage with a journalist on a live programme and using language that could further escalate the confrontation. Others believe the guest had legitimate grounds to object to Oseni’s previous remarks and that interviewers should also be mindful of their language and tone.

The role of the other Arise TV anchors has also become part of the discussion, particularly following claims that Abati intervened during the exchange.

Ultimately, the aborted interview has shifted attention away from the issues Olayinka was invited to discuss and toward a broader debate over media professionalism, aggressive political questioning, the responsibilities of public officials and the limits of acceptable language during live television interviews.