DLA presidential candidate Adebisi accuses Abati, Rufai of bullying, bias

By Boye Oyeyemi

The 2027 presidential candidate of the Democratic Leadership Alliance, Ambassador Moses Olusoji Adebisi, has accused Arise Television presenters, Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni, of bullying him during a live interview session.

Adebisi’s spokesman, Oluwatosin Ayeni, made the allegation in a statement issued on Thursday, describing the presenters’ conduct as “unruly, uncouth and thoroughly unprofessional.”

Ayeni alleged that the interview was characterised by sarcasm, interruptions and dismissive comments, arguing that the approach adopted by the presenters went beyond legitimate journalistic scrutiny.

“Ruben Abati and Rufai didn’t just goof, they conducted themselves as bullies,” the spokesman said.

He specifically criticised remarks attributed to the presenters, including “what a country,” alleging that such comments were intended to ridicule the presidential aspirant and undermine his public image.

The spokesman further accused Abati and Rufai of being sympathetic to a particular political figure, claiming that their conduct raised questions about their impartiality in scrutinising political candidates.

Ayeni also portrayed Adebisi as a candidate with an unblemished record, saying his detailed curriculum vitae would soon be released to enable Nigerians assess his credentials ahead of the 2027 election.

He urged Arise Television management to ensure fairness, adequate preparation and respect for political guests, while insisting that the DLA and its candidate would remain focused on their campaign despite the controversy.