The daily torch media
A live interview involving Lere Olayinka, spokesperson to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was abruptly cut short on Arise TV’s The Morning Show after a tense exchange with anchor Rufai Oseni.
The incident occurred during the programme on Friday, September 4, 2026, when Olayinka declined to respond to questions from Oseni and instead criticised the presenter during the live broadcast.
Olayinka reportedly said he did not want to answer questions from Oseni, insisting that he preferred the discussion to be held among “reasonable human beings.”
He also referenced a previous description allegedly used by Oseni against another person, saying he would not engage with someone who described people as “Gbewudani.”
The exchange prompted the programme anchors to bring the interview to an immediate end.
One of the anchors told Olayinka: “See you again when you are ready,” before the session was terminated.
The incident has since generated reactions among viewers and social media users, with discussions centred on the boundaries of live broadcast interviews, political communication and the responsibilities of public officials’ spokespersons.
While Olayinka’s supporters may argue that he had the right to decline questions from a particular presenter, others have defended Arise TV’s decision to end the interview rather than allow the disagreement to escalate on live television.
The development also shifted attention away from the policy issues and activities Olayinka was expected to discuss as Wike’s spokesperson, with the confrontation becoming the major talking point from the appearance.
The incident has renewed debate about how journalists and political spokespersons should manage disagreements during live broadcasts, particularly when interviews involve contentious political issues.
