Between Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni — by Simbo Olorunfemi

No doubt, the tension between Dr Reuben Abati and Mr Rufai Oseni has been brewing for a while. It’s being there to see. It was no surprise to see it boil over yesterday.

One man’s understanding of what journalism is clearly differs from that of the other.

One would have thought that given the pedigree of the more experienced practitioner, the other man will seize the privilege to share the table as an opportunity to learn, unlearn and relearn.

But apparently, Mr Oseni believes it should be the other way around.

In an age where all that matters appears to be how many followers one has, and the rating is dependent on that, it is no surprise to see what is going on.

Yesterday was bad. I once mentioned here about the need to fix the dysfunctional relationship between the guys in the studio and those in the control room.

It is even more obvious that something needs to be done about training or retaining for some on this table.

This is quite embarrassing, disrespectful and unprofessional.

It has been on for too long. The disrespect on the table. The snide remarks. The unprofessional tone. The carry-over of undermining remarks to the social media..

Who would have thought that the day would come that Mr Oseni will seek to tutor Dr Abati on Journalism. But it is what it is.

Obviously, there is no code of ethics and practice governing this table, otherwise this should not be happening. The frustration is palpable for the man trying to bring in some level of professionalism to the table.

But the other man is too far gone to be bothered to take a break or learn.

But it would help if he pauses to reflect on his ‘style’, as his reputation appears firmly fixed now. I felt sorry for him, seeing Olisa Agbakoba launch an unprovoked, pre-emptive attack on him the other week in anticipation that it was going to be another round of cross examination.

People now come prepared for a fight, which should not be. Incorporating a bit of courtesy and professionalism into his style should help.

Guy doesn’t come across like someone that receptive to learning though, otherwise he could have picked up from that table if he has a teachable spirit.

That he would say to Abati, ‘if you can’t stand the heat, don’t come to the kitchen’ says it all.

I think he thinks that as long as it resonates with the social media followers, which he panders to, then it’s all good.

Well.

But this has gone on for too long.

How long this dysfunctional relationship is allowed to go on is left for us to see.

Keywords: Bad faith Journalism, Training.