Arise News Discontinues Live Interview Over Wike’s Aide’s Refusal To Answer Anchor’s Question

A live interview on Arise News’ The Morning Show was discontinued on Friday after Lere Olayinka, spokesperson to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, refused to answer questions from one of the programme’s anchors, Oseni Rufai, and described him as not being among “reasonable human beings.”

The exchange occurred during a discussion involving the three anchors of the morning programme, Oseni Rufai, Ayo Mairo-Ese and another co-anchor.

Oseni had earlier asked Olayinka to explain the inclusion of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, in the presidential campaign council despite corruption allegations against her. 

At the start of the disagreement, Olayinka told Rufai that he would not be engaging with him during the interview.

“I am very sorry to say this, Oseni Rufai, I don’t want to answer any question from you. I want this conversation to be among reasonable human beings, people who will not come and describe other people as ‘bewudani,’” Olayinka said.

The phrase “bewudani” is a Yoruba expression often used to suggest that someone is being controlled or manipulated by another person.

As Olayinka continued speaking, co-anchor Ayo Mairo-Ese attempted to intervene and call him to order, but he interrupted her.

“Hello, I want this discussion to be among reasonable people,” Olayinka insisted.

Mairo-Ese immediately objected to the remark.

“Mr Olayinka, we take exception to that. I am sorry,” she said.

Despite her intervention, Olayinka maintained that he would not respond to questions from Rufai.

Mairo-Ese then addressed the situation directly, reminding the FCT minister’s aide of the expectations for guests appearing on the programme.

“Mr Olayinka, can I speak, please?” she asked before continuing.

“Mr Olayinka, when you were coming to this interview on The Morning Show, I am sure that you were aware that there are three anchors on the show. And so, if you are coming to present yourself on The Morning Show, then the onus is on you to present yourself to the three anchors who are here based on their credibility and efforts in terms of experience.”

She concluded the interview after Olayinka reiterated his refusal to engage with Rufai.

“But no more questions since you say you do not want to answer. We thank you very much for your time with us this morning, and hopefully see you again when you are ready to speak to the three of us. Thank you.”

The interview broadcast was immediately brought to an end.

The incident has since drawn attention on social media, with viewers reacting to the heated exchange and Arise News’ decision to discontinue the interview after Olayinka declined to engage one of its anchors.