By Osinachi
A youth alliance in Ebonyi State has formally submitted a petition to the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Federal Ministry of Information, urging disciplinary action against Arise News and its presenter, Mr Rufai Oseni. The petition stems from what the group has labelled a discourteous and unprofessional interview with the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
Operating under the name Concerned Youths for Distinguished Senator Engineer David Umahi, the group held a non-violent demonstration in Abakaliki on Thursday, condemning what they described as a violation of journalistic integrity during a recent live broadcast.
Protesters carried banners with inscriptions like “Rufai Oseni and Arise TV Should Issue a Public Apology” and “NBC, BON: Take a Stand Against Broadcast Misconduct.” They called on the relevant authorities to investigate the matter and impose appropriate penalties, including a formal apology from the media house and its anchor.
Pastor Damian Onu, who led the coalition, expressed strong displeasure with the tone and delivery of the interview. “Mr Oseni’s approach was not only condescending but amounted to an unfair media attack on a respected public servant and former state governor,” he said.
The group’s complaint, addressed to the key regulatory agencies, urged an official review of the interview, which they believe contravened professional broadcasting standards. They emphasised that the interview’s confrontational tone failed to respect the dignity of public office holders.
Pastor Onu also hailed Senator Umahi as “an invaluable asset to the nation,” highlighting his pivotal role in advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope initiative, especially in the realm of national infrastructure development.
His contributions to both state and federal infrastructure are undeniable. Such a leader deserves civility and respect in public discourse,” Onu added.
The protest was sparked by a recent interview on Arise TV, during which Senator Umahi clashed with Mr Oseni, urging the anchor to give him a fair chance to speak. The exchange triggered mixed reactions on social media, with public opinion split over the conduct of both individuals.
Comrade Sunday Agbo, a former coordinator at the local government level, clarified during the demonstration that their action was not against press freedom. “We stand firmly for free speech and journalism. However, freedom must come with responsibility. No journalist should use their platform to belittle or misrepresent someone fulfilling their national duty,” he stressed.
As of the time of filing this report, Arise News and Mr Oseni had yet to respond to the protest or the 24-hour ultimatum issued by the group. There was also no official reaction from NBC or BON regarding the petition.
The youth coalition concluded their peaceful march by reiterating their unwavering support for Senator Umahi and urging journalists and media institutions to uphold the ethics of their profession in all their engagements.
