Whenever controversies surround Rufai Oseni, the outspoken and fearless broadcaster on Arise Television, one recurring argument often resurfaces in public discourse — the claim that “Rufai Oseni is not a journalist”, critics are quick to emphasize that he lacks a formal academic background in journalism, having originally trained in animal anatomy, but beyond the semantics of qualification, a deeper question emerges: What truly defines a journalist, and what are the core functions of journalism in society?

As mass communication teacher, we teach students from the very first class that the media exist to inform, educate, entertain, and preserve cultural heritage. Journalists also play the crucial roles of agenda setting and acting as watchdogs, holding public officials accountable and amplifying the voices of the governed.

The media’s capacity to shape national conversations is immense. By highlighting specific issues and giving them prominence, journalists help raise awareness and influence public perception. It is through such agenda-setting functions that societies engage in dialogue, debate, and reform, thereby playing participatory role in the process of governance.

When examined through this functional lens, it becomes clear that Rufai Oseni has consistently fulfilled these journalistic responsibilities over the years. His incisive questioning, fearless commentary, and commitment to public accountability have made him one of the most recognizable broadcast personalities in contemporary Nigerian media.

A notable example is his now-famous exchange with the Minister of Works, Engineer Dave Umahi, on Arise Television. Before that encounter, few Nigerians had publicly interrogated the cost per kilometer of road construction projects executed by government agencies. While the minister initially dismissed Rufai’s question as “elementary,” the issue soon gained traction nationally. In fact, subsequent clarifications by Umahi — and even a public response by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde demonstrated that Oseni’s line of questioning had forced an important accountability conversation into the mainstream.

Through this singular act, Rufai did what the media are mandated to do: hold power accountable, enlighten the public, and stimulate civic engagement.

It is true that a formal qualification, such as a diploma or degree in journalism, is generally considered a prerequisite for professional practice. Yet, history tells a different story about the Nigerian press. Many of the country’s most celebrated media pioneers — from Herbert Macaulay to Ernest Ikoli, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Obafemi Awolowo — were not trained journalists in the academic sense. Nevertheless, through passion, intellect, and experience, they became towering figures in the nation’s journalistic landscape.

In the decades that followed, major Nigerian newspapers like The Guardian, The Punch, The Tribune, and the defunct National Concord were edited by professionals whose backgrounds spanned literature, political science, law, and the humanities — not necessarily journalism. What mattered was their adherence to journalistic ethics and commitment to truth.

Today, journalism is evolving faster than ever. The rise of social and digital media has democratized information dissemination, giving birth to citizen journalism — a space where individuals, regardless of academic background, can contribute meaningfully to public discourse. The boundaries of professional journalism have expanded, now encompassing voices trained in diverse disciplines but committed to the principles of truth, balance, and fairness.

In this context, Rufai Oseni’s two decades of consistent broadcast experience, his engagement with media ethics, and his pursuit of professional development courses all reinforce his credibility. His work reflects a mastery of journalism’s essence — even if his educational roots lie elsewhere.

The debate over Rufai Oseni’s academic background may continue, but it misses the more profound point: journalism is as much a calling as it is a profession. It demands curiosity, courage, critical thinking, and an unwavering commitment to public interest.

By these measures, Rufai Oseni has proven himself a journalist — not by certificate, but by conviction and consistent service to society.

Writer: Isah Abdulazeez, Mass Communication Lecturer, Federal Polytechnic, Auchi.

Isah Abdulazeez

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