Arise News anchor, Oseni Rufai, has vowed to remain vocal in challenging those in positions of authority despite opposition or criticism.
Rufai made the statement in a post on his verified X account on Friday, following a heated exchange with Lere Olayinka, media aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, during a live television programme.
The journalist thanked Nigerians who reached out to him with messages of support and made calls following the incident.
The controversy occurred during The Morning Show on Arise Television when Rufai asked Olayinka to respond to the inclusion of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, in a presidential campaign council despite allegations of corruption against her.
Rather than address the question, Olayinka objected to Rufai’s previous use of the Yoruba expression “Gbewudani” and said he would not respond to questions from the anchor.
The exchange prompted fellow presenter Ayo Mairo-Ese to intervene, reminding Olayinka that the programme had three anchors and that guests should expect questions from any of them.
When Olayinka maintained his refusal to engage with Rufai, the interview was eventually discontinued and the programme came to an abrupt end.
Reacting to the incident, Rufai said his resolve to continue speaking out was strengthened by historical examples of Nigerians who faced opposition while advocating for ordinary citizens.
He referenced the late labour leader, Pa Michael Imoudu, and his role during the 1945 general strike, noting that Imoudu faced resistance from both colonial authorities and some Nigerians who benefited from the existing system.
Rufai argued that people who benefit from an oppressive system may sometimes defend it, adding that recognising such oppression requires an informed mind.
He maintained that he would continue to speak against what he considers harmful to Nigeria, regardless of opposition from those who benefit from the situation.
