Yul Edochie Slams Arise TV Anchor Rufai Oseni Over “Disrespectful” Interview Style

Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has publicly criticised Rufai Oseni, accusing the Arise Television presenter of disrespecting guests and undermining his own credibility. The remarks, made in a viral social media video, have reignited debate about professionalism and accountability in Nigerian broadcast journalism.

Actor Questions Anchor’s Authority

Edochie referenced a prior incident in Lagos where Oseni was reportedly caught driving in a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane.

“Is this not the same Rufai Oseni that was caught driving on BRT lane?” Edochie said. “When officials caught you, instead of apologising, you shouted, ‘Do you know who I am? I’m going to call the governor of Lagos State.’”

The actor added that Oseni only issued an apology after a video of the episode went viral. “If not because somebody had a video, you could not even apologise. If there was no video, what would have happened?” he questioned.

Criticism of Interview Style

Edochie also accused the anchor of creating a hostile environment for guests. “How can you invite somebody and make the guest uncomfortable?” he asked. “If a guest is not comfortable, the first thing you do is apologise and make them feel at ease. How can you tell a guest that if they’re not comfortable, they are free to walk out of the studio?”

He went on to describe Oseni’s approach as confrontational and unprofessional. “You are insulting people on national TV. You’re a very disrespectful person. That is not journalism,” Edochie asserted.

Defense of President Tinubu

Shifting focus to politics, Edochie urged Nigerians to respect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and allow his administration time to deliver. “Jagaban President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the President of Nigeria, whether you like it or not. He is our President, you must respect him,” Edochie said. “The man just came in. Give him time. Rome was not built in a day.”

The video has sparked heated discussions online, with opinions divided over both Edochie’s critique and the conduct of journalists in high-profile interviews.