Very few people have seized another man’s platform and turned it into their pulpit to rail against the witches and wizards who have turned our country into a large coven. Ru-fire, as he is often called, has turned the morning show into a huge cauldron of hot water where he throws Nigeria’s worst enemies. His fire-spitting delivery, fearless approach, and never-say-die style of interrogation have made him the darling of the man on the street and one of the most disliked within the ruling cabal.
Ayo Fayose once said, “Ohhhh, you promised me you would rein in Rufai,” live on TV, as Rufai went at him like a pitbull, tearing and ravaging his position. Dave Umahi is another favourite opponent. He comes with a faux intellectual arrogance, believing he can rattle the people’s champion, but meets more than his match. In frustration, he shouts, “Rufai, keep quiet. I have reported you to the President.”
Oh my God — reporting “little” Rufai to the President only tells us the man’s weight and status. Rufai is justifiably very powerful, even more so than his colleagues on the programme — and, I dare say, on many such programmes in the country. He has been compared to some great international TV presenters for his stubborn “I no go gree” attitude and, like most people wired that way, he does not suffer fools gladly.
His apparent weakness is in taking criticism. Rufai will not take a blow lying down; he will come at you and push you till you submit. “Edgar, you are my brother, so I will not fight you,” he says — but in the same breath he is fighting me. Still, we end up laughing and having drinks at Austin’s place.
In an era where deviant opposition voices are missing, leaving us with the lone ranger Sowore — and have you noticed that even Dino Melaye is quiet now? — Rufai stands tall with his voice and empirical deductions in this fight for Nigeria. Today, whether you like it or not, Rufai is one of the biggest voices in Nigerian media, hence his inclusion on a list that delineates true power and influence.
Rufai is my brother — come and beat me.
Profile
Rufai Oseni was born on April 8, 1980, in Nigeria. He studied Animal Anatomy and Physiology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and also attended Lagos Business School, earning a certificate in Entrepreneurship Management (2018). He is also a Certified Change Management Practitioner from the Institute of Change Management Nigeria.
He started his media career with Radio Roots and went on to work with JFM Radio, Unique FM, and Gold FM, building a reputation for sharp commentary and engaging delivery.
He is currently a news anchor and talk show host on Arise TV, co-hosting the popular Morning Show. He is known for:
Asking tough, incisive questions
Live fact-checking of political figures
Viral interviews that often spark national debate
He is the published author of VERITAS: The Tale of a Sleeping Giant, a book exploring Nigerian leadership and governance.
He is an international speaker and has addressed audiences at Cambridge University, the University of Sussex, and other global platforms.
🏆 Recognition & Awards
Most Engaging Journalist on Social Media – Social Media Awards (2023)
Most Courageous TV Host of the Year
On-Air Personality of the Year – Nigeria Media Nite-Out Awards (2022)
Named Chairman of the Sportsville Special Recognition Awards (2025 edition)
Supports African startups and entrepreneurs through mentorship and investment
Collaborates with platforms like Techpoint, Pass.ng, and Loyalbonus
Works with government-backed initiatives like Ideas Hub to promote innovation
Rufais entry in the Maddtimes Power list Coffee table book PLS DONT SHARE
DUKE OF SHOMOLU
Last modified: January 27, 2026
