The disagreement began after Bwala responded to a post on X (formerly Twitter) made by Rufai Oseni, suggesting that the journalist was absent during an interview Bwala granted to Arise TV.
Bwala’s remarks quickly drew attention, especially after he implied that Rufai was unavailable due to an alleged suspension from the television station.
In his response, Daniel Bwala explained that his visit to Lagos State was part of a broader media engagement tour, which included appearances on multiple television platforms.
According to him, the interview in question took place while Rufai Oseni was not on set, but that did not mean Oseni was deliberately avoided.
Bwala claimed that if Rufai had been available or invited back by the producer, he could have taken part in the interview.
Bwala also dismissed suggestions that Rufai would have performed better during the interview.
He argued that such a claim indirectly undermined Reuben Abati, the respected journalist who conducted the interview.
“You cannot say someone would have done better without insulting the professional who actually handled the interview,” Bwala suggested.
He further stated that other media personalities had chances to respond to his public statements but chose not to, adding that some narratives had already been dismissed.
Rufai Oseni did not take the remarks lightly. Responding directly on his verified X account, the Arise TV journalist strongly rejected claims that he had been suspended.
In a sharp rebuttal, Rufai accused Bwala of spreading false information and challenged him to provide evidence to support his statement.
“A government official that thrives on lies,” Rufai wrote.
“Dear Bwala, provide details of my alleged suspension.”
He went further to demand documentary proof, insisting that without an official suspension letter, Bwala’s claims should not be taken seriously.
“If you don’t provide my suspension letter, then you should never be taken seriously,” Rufai stated.
He added that unless evidence was presented, he would no longer engage with Bwala’s statements.
The exchange quickly gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians joining the conversation.
Several users echoed Rufai’s demand, openly asking Bwala to provide proof of the alleged suspension.
Some users defended Rufai, praising his professionalism and insisting that unfounded claims against journalists could damage public trust.
Others viewed the exchange as another example of rising tensions between politicians and the media in Nigeria.
A number of commenters also criticized public officials for engaging journalists in confrontational exchanges instead of focusing on governance and policy communication.
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