The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned what it described as a “reckless and derogatory” remark made by Arise TV presenter, Rufai Oseni, about its presidential candidate, Senator Professor Sandy Onor.
The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, said the comment was made during the September 3, 2026 edition of The Morning Show on Arise TV.
The PDP noted that Oseni’s co-presenter, Dr. Reuben Abati, immediately cautioned him about the potentially defamatory nature of the remark, describing the development as an indication of the seriousness of the comment.
The party said journalists have the right to interrogate political actors, express opinions and subject candidates to robust scrutiny, but stressed that such freedom does not extend to insulting, ridiculing or maliciously disparaging political candidates.
It described Oseni’s comment as unacceptable and below the standards expected of responsible journalism and broadcasting.
The PDP therefore demanded the immediate withdrawal of the remark and an unreserved public apology from Oseni to Onor.
The party also cautioned the management of Arise TV against allowing its platform to be used to ridicule or disparage its presidential candidate under the guise of political commentary.
It warned that political commentary must not cross into defamation or character assassination, adding that it would take “all appropriate measures available under the law” to protect the dignity and reputation of its candidate.
“No journalist, regardless of his platform or perceived influence, is above the law,” the statement said, warning Oseni and Arise TV to take the matter seriously.
