Lere Olayinka, a former media aide and public affairs commentator, has refused to answer questions from Arise TV presenter Rufai Oseni, saying he would only engage in an interview conducted with reason and professionalism.

Olayinka made the position known during an appearance on Arise TV on Saturday, September 5, 2026, in an exchange that has renewed debate over the boundaries between tough journalism and what critics describe as confrontational broadcasting.

Explaining his decision, Olayinka maintained that no guest should be compelled to participate in what he considers an unnecessarily hostile interview.

He reportedly objected to Oseni’s interviewing style and referenced the presenter’s previous use of the expression “Gbewudani,” which has attracted criticism in public discourse.

Olayinka’s position has drawn attention to previous confrontations involving Oseni and public figures who have accused the broadcaster of being disrespectful or overly combative during interviews.

One of the notable incidents occurred in February 2025, when presidential aide Daniel Bwala confronted Oseni during a television appearance and reportedly told him, “You cannot control me or talk to me like a secondary school student.”

Critics of Oseni’s approach have also cited his exchanges with public officials, including Minister of Works David Umahi, as examples of interviews that have degenerated into heated verbal confrontations.

However, supporters of the broadcaster’s style have often argued that journalists must be willing to ask difficult questions and hold public officials accountable, particularly on matters of governance and public interest.

The latest controversy has consequently raised a broader question about how journalists can maintain tough and probing interviews without crossing into personal attacks or disrespect.

Olayinka argued that journalists can ask difficult questions, challenge politicians and expose contradictions without resorting to insults or humiliation.

He said professionalism in broadcasting should be measured not only by the willingness to confront those in authority but also by the ability to exercise restraint and respect during interviews.

He further noted that Oseni’s academic background in Animal Anatomy and Physiology was not an issue, stressing that professional competence should ultimately be judged by conduct rather than one’s university discipline.

According to Olayinka, Oseni has every right to be fearless and demanding in his interviews but should not equate aggression or incivility with journalistic courage.

He maintained that his refusal to continue the interview should not automatically be interpreted as an attempt to avoid scrutiny, arguing that guests also have the right to determine the conditions under which they engage in public discourse.

The development has again sparked discussion about the responsibilities of journalists and broadcasters in Nigeria, particularly the need to balance robust questioning with civility.

Olayinka’s central argument was that journalism should challenge power and demand accountability while preserving professionalism and respect for individuals.“The microphone is not a weapon. The television studio is not a courtroom.

And a journalist is not a judge,” he argued.He said Nigeria needs journalists who can ask uncomfortable questions without becoming insulting and challenge those in government without abusing them.

Olayinka therefore stood by his decision to draw a line during the interview, insisting that respect should be mutual between interviewer and guest.