A public exchange has erupted between Rufai Oseni of Arise TV and Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a controversial social media post that has drawn widespread reactions.
The dispute began after Oseni shared an image on his social media platform depicting the logo of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) creatively styled using broom-like elements widely associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC). The image appeared to suggest a perceived alignment between the electoral body and the ruling political party, a sensitive implication given INEC’s constitutional mandate to remain neutral and independent.
The post quickly gained traction online, generating mixed reactions from the public. While some users interpreted it as political commentary or satire reflecting concerns about electoral integrity, others viewed it as an inappropriate and potentially misleading representation of a key democratic institution.
Reacting strongly to the post, Onanuga took to social media to criticise Oseni, describing the publication as “irresponsible” and accusing the broadcaster of displaying clear political bias. In his response, the presidential aide dismissed the image as the “handiwork of a political hack,” suggesting that it undermined professional standards expected of journalists.
Onanuga further argued that by sharing such content, Oseni had compromised his objectivity and exposed partisan leanings. He maintained that journalists, particularly those working with established media organisations, are expected to exercise restraint and uphold principles of fairness and neutrality in their public communications.
In a sharply worded remark, Onanuga stated that if Oseni were an employee within his own organisation, the action would warrant immediate dismissal. This comment has since sparked debate about press freedom, professional ethics, and the boundaries of personal expression for journalists in the digital age.
He also called on the leadership of Arise TV to intervene, specifically referencing the network’s founder, Nduka Obaigbena, often referred to as “The Duke.” Onanuga expressed hope that the media executive would “call [Oseni] to order,” warning that such actions could harm the credibility and reputation of the television station.
The exchange has reignited broader conversations about the role of journalists on social media platforms, particularly in politically charged environments. With increasing overlap between personal expression and professional responsibility, media practitioners often face scrutiny over posts that may be interpreted as endorsing specific political positions.
Supporters of Oseni argue that journalists, like other citizens, have the right to express opinions and engage in commentary, especially on issues of public interest such as electoral transparency. They contend that satire and symbolic imagery have long been part of political discourse and should not automatically be equated with partisanship.
However, critics maintain that individuals in influential media positions must exercise greater caution, given the potential impact of their statements on public perception. They argue that posts suggesting institutional bias—particularly involving bodies like INEC—can erode trust in democratic processes if not carefully contextualised.
As of the time of reporting, Oseni had not issued a formal response to Onanuga’s remarks, and Arise TV had also not released an official statement addressing the controversy.
The incident highlights the growing tension between political actors and media professionals in Nigeria’s evolving information landscape. It also underscores the heightened sensitivity surrounding electoral institutions and the narratives that shape public confidence in them.
With the country’s political climate becoming increasingly polarised ahead of future elections, such exchanges are likely to remain a recurring feature of public discourse, raising important questions about accountability, free expression, and the responsibilities that come with influence in the digital era.
