“Despite his extensive journalism background, Mr. Oseni has faced criticism and personal attacks regarding his interviewing and anchoring style. Some have questioned his approach to journalism despite his experience working for various media outlets. Critics suggest that he needs to be more mindful of the ethical values of journalism, which include truthfulness, accuracy, factual reporting, independence, objectivity, impartiality, fairness, respect for others, and public accountability.”
Lately, Rufai Oseni has garnered a significant amount of attention, with many individuals discussing the topic.
The nature of the hype surrounding him has created a divide within the nation, with some individuals criticising his journalistic style and others praising his courage during interviews. The widespread confusion surrounding his name highlights the importance of investigating the factors that have contributed to this surge in interest. The question is: Who is he exactly? What is his background, and what has he achieved to warrant the hype surrounding him? Is there a reason for all the buzz around Oseni?
Oseni is a prominent journalist who has had his fair share of controversies and criticisms throughout his career. He has been accused of presenting a one-sided story and biased reporting, which has resulted in many high-profile individuals refusing to grant him interviews. Furthermore, his lack of fact-checking has led to several errors in his reporting, which have resulted in retractions and corrections being made.
Aside from this, Oseni has faced ethical concerns, with allegations of him being partisan during interviews with specific individuals or politicians. In some instances, he has been accused of taking sides and not allowing balanced views to be aired. These allegations have undoubtedly affected Oseni’s reputation in the journalism industry, with some questioning the reliability of his reporting.
Despite these controversies, Oseni has continued to be a prolific journalist, covering a wide range of topics, including politics, business and human-interest stories. However, the criticisms leveled against him have raised important questions about journalistic ethics and the importance of balanced reporting. In light of recent events, it is natural to wonder what led to the downfall of one of Nigeria’s most successful and relatable interviewers. How did someone so highly regarded become embroiled in controversy, and what factors contributed to this unfortunate situation?
Although there are different accounts of Oseni’s background, specific details are widely accepted. Depending on the source, he was born either on April 8, 1980 in Odogbolu, Ogun State, or on June 11, 1974 in Lagos State, Nigeria. Some reports suggest that he attended St. Finbarr’s College in Lagos for his secondary education. In contrast, others indicate that he completed both his primary and secondary education in Ogun State before obtaining a degree in Animal Physiology from the distinguished Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. In addition, Rufai holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Lagos and a certificate in Entrepreneurship from Lagos Business School, Pan Atlantic University.
Rufai is a well-respected Arise TV host who exudes a commanding presence. He is a renowned speaker on a global scale, a thought leader in his field, and a technology enthusiast. Beyond his on-screen work, he actively supports African startups and entrepreneurs. Rufai has demonstrated his media skills on JFM Radio, Unique FM, and Gold FM, and he serves as a mentor, making a significant impact in his industry. Mr. Oseni is a multi-talented individual who has made significant contributions to various fields, including media, finance and entertainment. He is widely recognized as an author, public speaker, poet, tech enthusiast, director, and CEO of NEO media group, among other roles. Rufai has been invited to speak at prestigious TED conferences and is highly regarded as a keynote speaker. His remarkable achievements have not only impacted the media industry, but also inspired many young Nigerians to pursue their dreams.
Despite his extensive journalism background, Mr. Oseni has faced criticism and personal attacks regarding his interviewing and anchoring style. Some have questioned his approach to journalism despite his experience working for various media outlets. Critics suggest that he needs to be more mindful of the ethical values of journalism, which include truthfulness, accuracy, factual reporting, independence, objectivity, impartiality, fairness, respect for others, and public accountability. They argue that Oseni struggles to remain objective, impartial, fair, and respectful towards others. His tendency to appear pessimistic and pursue his agenda has been condemned by experts in the journalistic profession and beyond.
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Recently, a situation on Arise TV involving Oseni and guest Jesutega Onokpasa raised concerns about Oseni’s professionalism as an anchor. This encounter was not the first time the two had clashed on air. In a previous incident, when a Senior Advocate of Nigeria made negative remarks about the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Oseni allowed it. However, when Jesutega attempted to moderate the conversation, Oseni reprimanded him. These actions do not align with journalistic principles of impartiality, objectivity, and fairness. As a journalist and anchor, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the profession, including legal boundaries and guest limitations.
An essential role of a journalist is to craft and share stories that influence the public’s perspective. Acting as information gatekeepers, journalists meticulously choose and present reports that connect with their readers. Through their work, they can bring attention to social concerns, reveal instances of corruption, and empower underrepresented communities. By presenting diverse viewpoints and promoting meaningful discussions, journalists foster critical thinking and contribute to building a more equitable society. In modern democracies, journalists are a crucial link between the government and the citizens, playing a vital role in shaping public opinion and influencing political outcomes. They provide the people with valuable information, analysis, and perspectives on political issues, making sure that citizens are well-informed about current events, political developments, and government policies. Through various media platforms, such as newspapers, television, radio, and digital channels, journalists disseminate news and keep the public informed about political campaigns, policy debates, and legislative activities. By doing so, they empower citizens to make informed decisions and take an active role in shaping the future of their lives, their communities, their societies, and their governments.
The 1928 American silent film is a timeless tale of a young journalist who mistakenly implicates a politician’s daughter in a murder case. The film’s plot centers around the reporter’s journey to correct his error, clear the woman’s name, and bring the true culprit to justice. It underscores the vital role of accuracy and integrity in reporting the news, highlighting the bedrock principle of journalism: the unwavering dedication of journalists to conducting thorough research and pursuing the truth.
In their influential work, The Elements of Journalism, Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel underscored the critical role of truth in the field of journalism. They assert that an unwavering commitment to objective truth-seeking is what sets journalism apart from all other forms of communication. For these authors, journalistic truth is an ongoing process of meticulously collecting and verifying facts to deliver the most impartial and credible account of events. They also stress the importance of transparency in journalism, which allows the public to participate in the truth-seeking process. Ultimately, the primary purpose of journalism is to serve the public interest, and by combining traditional journalistic practices with the power of networked communities, the quest for truth becomes even more robust.
The authors stress the significance of transparency in journalism, emphasising that journalists must reveal their sources and methods to enable audiences to draw their conclusions. Journalism has its limitations, and the ultimate goal is to serve the public interest and inform citizens, not exploit them. Transparency enables the public to participate in the process of discovering the truth. According to Kovach and Rosenstiel, combining traditional journalistic techniques and authority with the power of the networked community strengthens the search for truth.
For example, when the Atlanta Journal-Constitution initially reported on questionable test scores in Atlanta schools in 2008, teachers stepped forward to report cheating at their schools. This information was invaluable as it highlighted concerns of a widespread problem, leading to further investigative work and stories.
In 1999, Jay Rosen documented the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer’s attempt to increase civic engagement in his book: “What Are Journalists For?” Despite publishing a series of compelling articles about the city’s challenges and future, the newspaper received a lacklustre public response. To remedy this, the newspaper took drastic measures by organising town meetings and private gatherings to bring together the racially segregated community. In addition, the newspaper continued to report on the city’s shortcomings and plans. As a result, residents used the reporting as a catalyst for further discussions and action. However, not all journalists, particularly external ones, were comfortable with the newspaper’s direct involvement in the city’s political affairs. These journalists believed that reporters should only report the news, not participate in it. The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer situation is a unique example of collaboration between journalists and citizens for the greater good. It highlights an ongoing debate on whether journalists should be involved in the communities they cover or remain impartial observers.
The reason I reference these examples is to bring attention to the issue of media bias that continues to persist in the Nigerian media landscape. In Nigeria, there is a prevalent belief that news organisations exhibit bias when reporting on political and social issues. This perceived unfairness is often attributed to journalists promoting a specific political agenda. This perception may stem from the tendency of Nigerians to think that journalists may lend support to individuals associated with political parties they favour. With the plethora of online sources available, media bias is likely to remain a contentious topic.
But what exactly does media bias entail? The term media bias refers to the systematic selection of events and stories by journalists and news producers, as well as the way they are covered. This bias goes beyond the personal perspective of an individual journalist or article and instead suggests a widespread prejudice that goes against journalistic standards.
However, the extent and direction of media bias vary widely across different countries and are often a subject of debate. In Nigeria, for example, journalists face practical limitations that prevent them from reporting all available stories and facts, and they must instead select points that can be woven into a coherent narrative. The interaction between politics and media bias can be complex, with the media sometimes influencing politicians and politicians having the power to control the media. This dynamic can have a significant impact on the distribution of power within society, making media bias a crucial issue that requires attention and action.
In Nigeria, journalism is guided by principles of impartiality, equity, and accuracy. However, personal inclinations can sometimes interfere with objective reportage. This inadvertent bias can undermine the crucial role of the press in a democratic society, which is to provide Nigerians with accurate and reliable information.
After analysing the situation, it appears that Mr. Oseni could benefit from improving his active listening skills to avoid potential biases. Though some may not agree, active listening is a crucial aspect that he could concentrate on. As an interviewer, it’s important to listen attentively and speak less, even if you disagree with the speaker. By enhancing his interview approach in this area, Oseni could create a comfortable atmosphere for his guests and encourage them to share their thoughts, resulting in smoother conversations. Currently, his style has disrupted interviews and caused guests to feel defensive, especially in regard to their political affiliations. While asking tough questions is necessary, it’s equally vital to adopt an open-minded attitude that invites guests to express their opinions.
Journalism holds the crucial responsibility of equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about their personal lives and society as a whole. Journalists serve as essential components of the checks and balances that uphold modern democracies. They facilitate communication between governing officials and the public while advocating for the interests of society as a whole.
Given their significant role in shaping public opinion and discourse, journalists need to understand that not everyone will appreciate their work. Although some may sing their praises today, feelings can be fickle and subject to change. The actual value of a person is often only revealed when they have offended us. Therefore, it is imperative to remember that the end justifies the means and to be cautious of those who may turn against you in the future, regardless of their current opinions.
For Mr. Oseni to excel as a journalist, he must possess a thorough understanding of the ethical principles underpinning the watchdog role of journalism in a democracy. In his capacity as an anchor, he may encounter challenging situations with interviewees during live TV broadcasts. It is paramount to remember that even seasoned journalists have faced criticism from politicians.
It is also essential to bear in mind that politicians can hold office for extended periods, and hence, individuals like Mr. Oseni will need to interact with them. As journalists, we must treat interviewees with respect and refrain from showing a hostile attitude that reveals a personal agenda. If the respondent provides answers to our questions, we have fulfilled our duty. If not, we must move on. We have no power to compel the respondent to answer our questions. Hence, it would be unjust for Mr. Oseni to insist on precise responses from every individual he encounters. It is up to them to decide which questions they feel comfortable answering.
As a respected journalist, Mr. Oseni should be aware that emotions can run high during television interviews, depending on the topic being discussed. However, the primary goal of any interview is to educate and engage both the network and the audience. To avoid making guests uncomfortable with overly aggressive or ambush-style questioning, Mr. Oseni must remain impartial. Unfortunately, he has a clear bias, often treating guests with opposing viewpoints as if they were being cross-examined. This type of behaviour can be damaging to a media outlet’s reputation, as presenters and reporters may become the subject of controversy.
We encourage Mr. Oseni to conduct himself with professionalism and discretion, which will lead to positive news coverage. It is not about tolerating unjust criticism but rather about keeping a low profile to prevent negative backlash from the public. We applaud Dr. Reuben Abati’s efforts to maintain fairness and balance on Arise TV, and we hope Mr. Oseni can learn from his example.
The Arise Morning Show has garnered a significant following in Nigeria due to the insightful analysis and exceptional interviewing skills of Mr. Oseni and his co-anchors. However, the recent allegations against Mr. Oseni are cause for concern. Although many people have called for Mr. Oseni’s dismissal, it is a relief to see that he has not faced any disciplinary action. One thing is obvious: Mr. Oseni must recognise that he is under scrutiny and must conduct himself appropriately. The fact that rival stations and journalists have reported on his journalistic approach is evidence of this. It is imperative that Oseni maintains a high standard of conduct during his interviews.
We urge Nigerians to recognise and appreciate Oseni’s commendable efforts in holding our leaders accountable and keeping the public informed. As the wise Abraham Lincoln once said, addressing every criticism can distract one from their ultimate goals. Offering constructive criticism is crucial for both personal and professional development. In this regard, it is essential to hope that Oseni will be receptive to constructive feedback and take it in good faith. This mindset can significantly reduce any distractions that come from unfavourable feedback.
Oseni’s interviews reveal a remarkable display of bravery despite the risks he faced. His fearlessness is genuinely commendable and deserves recognition. As viewers, it is essential to provide constructive feedback on a journalist’s work. However, it is crucial to refrain from attacking the individual behind the content, as this can be counterproductive. Criticising one’s physical attributes, ethnicity, gender, age, or any other personal characteristic is unacceptable. Instead, the focus should be on the work itself and its substance, not the individual or their personal life. By treating Mr. Oseni’s job with respect and focusing on the significance of his message, we can help him effectively convey his message. Despite facing criticism from some individuals, Oseni’s work has gained international recognition, and he was recently honoured by GAMA as the Most Courageous TV Host of the Year, a clear indication of his unyielding dedication to his profession.
Journalists and writers in Nigeria have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political, social, and economic landscape. They have been instrumental in driving change by exposing corruption and advocating for human rights. Over time, many of these individuals have risen to prominence, earning recognition for their outstanding work and impact on society. While there may be differing opinions on who is and was Nigeria’s most famous journalist, the likes of Dele Giwa, Nduka Obaigbena, Dele Olojede, Femi Osofisan, Wole Soyinka, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Peter Enahoro, and Reuben Abati are all noteworthy. These notable figures have paved the way for the younger generation of journalists to thrive in the industry. Nigeria’s journalism scene is vibrant and varied, with numerous personalities leaving their mark on the profession. As the country continues to progress, it is anticipated that more journalists will emerge and contribute to the industry’s growth and the country’s advancement. Therefore, we encourage Rufai Oseni to aspire to be part of the new generation of Nigerian authors who are making a name for themselves.
Amidst the recent buzz surrounding Oseni, it’s crucial to recognise that Nigeria is currently facing several critical issues that demand our immediate attention and action. The negative news surrounding the Nigerian economy is one of the most pressing concerns. Weak job creation and entrepreneurial prospects impede the absorption of 3.5 million Nigerians entering the workforce every year, prompting many workers to migrate in search of better opportunities. As the population grows at a faster pace than the economy, poverty rates are increasing, and fuel prices continue to rise. By 2023, the poverty rate is expected to hit 37 percent, with an estimated 84 million Nigerians living below the poverty line – the world’s second-largest poor population after India. Besides, wide infrastructure gaps hinder access to electricity and prevent the country from leveraging its vast market size for domestic economic integration. Additionally, many federal policies are formulated without a comprehensive understanding of local communities and the people they are intended to serve.
While Oseni has been a recent topic of discussion, it’s vital to remember that our focus should be on addressing the significant challenges our country is grappling with rather than giving undue attention to any individual. Therefore, after much discussion and analysis about Oseni, it is time to shift our focus from him and turn our attention to other pressing matters that require our attention. It’s essential to recognise that we have thoroughly explored him from both negative and positive angles, and there is no need to continue dwelling on it. Instead, let’s direct our energy and resources toward other essential issues that demand our consideration and discussion.
. Rev. Ma, S.J, is a Jesuit Catholic priest and PhD candidate in public and social policy at St. Louis University in the state of Missouri, United States of America.
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