# Arise News interview controversy involving Lere Olayinka > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/arise-news-interview-controversy-involving-lere-olayinka > Updated: 2026-09-07T23:01:21.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. A live interview on Arise News involving Lere Olayinka, media aide to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, has triggered a debate over journalistic objectivity and political accountability in Nigeria. The confrontation occurred when Olayinka refused to answer questions from anchor Rufai Oseni regarding Minister Wike’s stance on the 2027 presidential campaign council and the inclusion of former minister Betta Edu. Olayinka declined to engage, stating a preference to speak with “reasonable human beings.” The tension resulted in co-anchor Ayo Mairo-Ese terminating the interview, noting that guests are expected to engage with all anchors on the program. The incident has drawn criticism from political analysts and figures who characterized Olayinka’s conduct as arrogant, suggesting he missed an opportunity to communicate the Minister’s position. The event has since prompted broader discussions regarding whether journalists are becoming too partisan or if political figures are increasingly avoiding accountability by attacking the media. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-07: Rufai Oseni and political accountability on Arise News A tense interview on Arise News involving anchor Rufai Oseni and spokesman Lere Olayinka has raised questions about journalistic professionalism and political accountability in Nigeria. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rufai-oseni-and-political-accountability-on-arise-news ### 2026-09-04: Lere Olayinka clashes with Arise News anchor during live interview An Arise News interview with Wike aide Lere Olayinka was terminated after he refused to answer questions from anchor Rufai Oseni, sparking political debate over media engagement and accountability. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lere-olayinka-defends-nyesom-wikes-political-stance-on-arise-tv --- Cite as: Arise News interview controversy involving Lere Olayinka. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/arise-news-interview-controversy-involving-lere-olayinka