Lere Olayinka, spokesperson to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, refused to take questions from Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni during a live television programme on Friday.
Olayinka appeared on The Morning Show but declined to engage directly with Oseni, saying he preferred discussions with people he regarded as reasonable.
The disagreement reportedly followed Olayinka’s objection to Oseni’s alleged description of some individuals using the term “emudani.”
During the programme, Oseni asked Olayinka why former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, who has been linked to corruption allegations, was included in the presidential campaign council.
Instead of addressing the question, Olayinka directed his response at Oseni and made it clear that he would not take questions from him.
“Well, I’m very sorry to say this, Oseni Rufai, I don’t want to answer any question from you. I want to concentrate,” Olayinka said.
He added, “I want this conversation to be among reasonable human beings, people who will not come and tell, who will not come and describe other people as ‘emudani’.”
Co-anchor Ayo Mairo-Ese intervened, reminding Olayinka that his invitation was to speak with all three anchors, including Reuben Abati.
She subsequently brought the interview to an end, saying Olayinka could be invited again when he is “ready to speak to the three of us”.
The latest incident is the latest in a series of public disagreements between Olayinka and Oseni.
The pair have previously exchanged criticisms over issues including the meaning of journalism and Oseni’s professional background.
During an earlier dispute, Olayinka questioned Oseni’s credentials as a journalist, pointing out that he studied Animal Anatomy. Oseni, however, defended his journalism experience and professional training.
Olayinka has also criticised Oseni’s approach to interviewing public officials, accusing the broadcaster in 2025 of failing to maintain what he considered appropriate standards when interacting with guests on television.
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Moment ARISE TV cut short its interview with Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, after he declined to respond to questions from Rufai Oseni this morning.#ARISTV #LereOlayinka #RufaiOseni #Wike #Politics #Nigeria #News pic.twitter.com/Y9aEIMsEYw
— NewsClick Nigeria Media (@NewsClickng) September 4, 2026
