According to a report by PUNCH on May 2, 2025, Lere Olayinka, spokesperson for Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, sparked a wave of reactions with a social media post targeting broadcast journalist Rufai Oseni. The incident unfolded after Oseni revealed plans to interview Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
Olayinka publicly asked whether Oseni had personally financed his journey to Abia, including accommodation and travel back to Lagos. "Did you use your own money to go to Abia, sleep in a hotel, and come back to Lagos? I want to check something,” Olayinka posted, suggesting possible third-party sponsorship behind the journalist’s reporting trip.
The implication of external funding stirred debate about media impartiality and accountability. Oseni, a well-known host on Arise TV, has built a reputation for his no-nonsense approach to interviewing political figures. Though he has received acclaim for holding leaders accountable, his style has also drawn criticism from some political figures, including previous on-air confrontations with Olayinka himself.
A 2025 analysis by Tekedia defended Oseni’s methods, arguing that his unfiltered approach is critical in a time when Nigeria faces pressing issues such as inflation, unstable fuel prices, and a volatile currency market.
Governor Alex Otti, who took office in 2023 as the first Labour Party governor in Abia State, remains a figure of high public interest. His administration has been under close watch as citizens and observers evaluate the impact of an alternative party’s leadership in a traditionally two-party dominant landscape.