Prominent Nigerian politician Joe Igbokwe has declared that he will no longer appear on the widely viewed Arise TV news platform until the editor or producer named Rufai Oseni is removed. Igbokwe’s statement follows a heated clash involving Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Minister of Aviation, Musa Nuhu, and Arise TV, with Rufai Oseni playing a contentious role behind the scenes. This declaration marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between political figures and the influential media outlet.
Igbokwe, known for his outspoken and combative style, accused Oseni of biased and inflammatory editing and production decisions that he claims misrepresent facts and unfairly target government officials. According to Igbokwe, the presence of Oseni undermines impartial journalism at Arise TV, and he insists that no credible political personality should appear on the channel unless Oseni is dismissed. This ultimatum has sparked significant public and media debate over media freedom and accountability within Nigeria’s vibrant, yet often polarized, broadcast landscape.
The conflict is taking place against a backdrop of broader friction between the ruling government and media houses perceived to be critical of some public officials. Minister Umahi, involved in the clash, reportedly took issue with media narratives in which Arise TV was implicated, escalating tensions with the station and its personnel. Those close to the matter suggest that Oseni’s editorial decisions may have inadvertently intensified political antagonisms.
Arise TV itself has not officially commented on Joe Igbokwe’s declaration, nor on the calls for Oseni’s removal. The station recently experienced a tragic loss following the violent death of celebrated Arise news anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu in September 2025, which briefly shifted public attention toward concerns about safety for media practitioners in Nigeria.
Observers warn that such public confrontations between politicians and media personnel could threaten the integrity and independence of journalism if not managed with care and professionalism. This standoff has heightened questions about the balance between free press rights and the political pressures exerted on influential news platforms.
Meanwhile, Arise TV continues to broadcast popular news and political programs with significant viewership. The outcome of this dispute may have repercussions on the station’s editorial policies and relations with political actors ahead of upcoming elections and governance challenges.