By Alex Odeh
Ebonyi youths under the aegis of Concerned Youths for Distinguished Senator Engineer David Umahi staged a peaceful demonstration in Abakaliki on Thursday, demanding a public apology from Arise News and its anchor, Mr. Rufai Oseni, over what they described as an “insulting and unprofessional” interview with the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.
The protesters, who marched through the streets of the state capital carrying placards, accused Oseni of showing “utter disrespect” to the Minister during a recent interview on Arise Television.
They particularly condemned the journalist’s comments and tone, alleging that Oseni attempted to “embarrass and undermine” Umahi, who also served as former governor of Ebonyi State and is currently spearheading major federal infrastructure projects.
“We are here today to register our disappointment over the manner in which our revered leader, Senator David Umahi, was treated on live television,” said Pastor Damian Onu, leader of the group and convener of the protest.
“Mr. Oseni’s conduct was not only disrespectful but also bordered on media ambush. We demand an unreserved apology within 24 hours,” Onu further stated.
Pastor Onu described Senator Umahi as a “national asset” and “a leading light in the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda,” citing the Minister’s achievements in road construction and infrastructure development across the country.
Some of the placards held by the protesters read: “Senator Umahi is competent and trusted in civil engineering,” “Arise TV and Rufai Oseni must apologize now,” “NBC and BON must act against media misconduct,” “Youths stand with Umahi: Architect of Nigeria’s road revolution,” among others.
The group insisted that Senator Umahi’s record in public office speaks for itself and should be treated with dignity.
“This is someone who transformed Ebonyi State from a so-called ‘dust of the nation’ to a model of modern infrastructure. He deserves respect, not ridicule,” Onu said.
The protest came days after a heated exchange between Senator Umahi and Mr. Oseni during an interview on Arise TV, during which the Minister reportedly asked Oseni to “allow him to speak,” prompting a sharp retort from the anchor.
The interview later went viral on social media, with mixed reactions from viewers.
The group also petitioned the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Federal Ministry of Information, urging regulatory action against the station and the journalist for what they described as “a breach of ethical journalism.”
“Journalism should inform and educate, not ridicule public officials on national television. We are not against free press, but professionalism must be maintained at all times,” Onu added.
Meanwhile, Comrade Sunday Agbo, a former coordinator of Effium Development Centre in Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi State, echoed the group’s sentiments.
Agbo said: “People like Rufai Oseni cannot tarnish the image of a man who has contributed so much to the progress of Nigeria. Senator Umahi is on a national mission.
As of press time, neither Arise News nor Mr. Rufai Oseni had issued a formal response to the protest or the 24-hour ultimatum.
The NBC and BON have also not released any official statement regarding the petition.
