By Thomas Danjuma Abu
My journey to appreciating Rufai Useni did not begin with admiration. In fact, I used to see him as a relentless critic who always had one sharp opinion or the other. Anytime he appeared on my screen, I would shake my head and say, “Ah! This Rufai don start again!” But life has a way of turning our assumptions upside down. One day, an analysis of his appeared on Mr. Common Sense’s Facebook page. Out of curiosity, I clicked on it—and that was it. The depth, the clarity, the courage, the brutal honesty delivered with calm precision… something in me shifted. That one video drew me straight into YouTube, where I watched more of his clips, listened deeply, and concluded one thing confidently: this man is exceptionally good at what he does. Many who criticize him simply have not listened to him with an open mind.
Along the line, there was one unforgettable moment that made me respect Rufai even more. I watched a programme where, under his calm but firm line of questioning, the guest found himself speaking in a way that suggested a level of academic authority he probably didn’t intend to project. The whole thing was harmless but unintentionally funny. Rufai didn’t insult him, didn’t push him, didn’t raise his voice—he just asked those trademark Rufai-style questions that tighten like a journalistic screwdriver. Before we knew it, the guest was almost promoting himself academically on live TV. I laughed, not out of mockery, but out of amazement at how Rufai’s interviewing skill can make even the most confident person start reviewing their life choices on air. That moment taught me something: when Rufai is handling an interview, even your shadow must behave itself.
In the noisy world of Nigerian journalism, Rufai Useni stands out as one of the few voices whose brilliance cannot be ignored. Some casual critics throw around shallow comments like “Rufai is not a good journalist” or “He didn’t study Mass Communication,” without understanding that purpose is not restricted by degree. Many studied courses for certificates; Rufai’s spirit studied journalism for destiny. He may have studied Anatomy with his hands, but journalism entered his bloodstream long before microphones entered his palms.
One of Rufai’s superpowers is his ability to extract meaningful insight from even the toughest discussions. Oseni is a spanner—a journalistic spanner—capable of tightening loose arguments, loosening hidden truths, and adjusting conversations until clarity appears. Whether the guest is evasive, political, overly confident, or simply unsure, Rufai will politely, calmly, and intelligently guide them to the essence of the matter. He doesn’t intimidate; he illuminates.
Those who attack him do so not because he lacks quality, but because truth often irritates those who benefit from confusion. As one admirer put it, “Rufai is the definition of school isn’t a scam—knowledge is truly power.” Another said, “He may not get it right always, but he has been on the frontline of truth for years.” Greatness is not perfection; it is consistent integrity, and Rufai has displayed this across time.
He has also been widely acknowledged for his mastery in African affairs analysis. Many have said, “Rufai has unmatched knowledge when it comes to African affairs,” and “He is one of the most intellectually sound journalists of our time.” These are not empty compliments—they are observations rooted in consistency. Rufai dissects issues with the precision of a scientist and the clarity of a seasoned broadcaster. Perhaps his Anatomy background sharpened this skill; perhaps it is natural brilliance. Either way, it works.
What separates Rufai from many others is not just intelligence but groundedness. He is in touch with the struggles of everyday Nigerians. He asks the questions the public whispers behind closed doors. He challenges power with respect but without fear. As one admirer said so perfectly: “Rufai, your type is rare in journalism. May God continue to protect you.”
In a country that often feels like “a movie with plenty series,” Rufai Useni remains one of the most consistent narrators of our national reality. He is a blessing to journalism and a gift to Nigeria. So today, we say: God bless you, Rufai Useni. Your voice is needed. Your courage is refreshing. Your intelligence is inspiring. And your integrity speaks louder than the criticisms thrown at you.
Because at the end of the day, truth may be quiet, but it is powerful—and Rufai stands firmly on its side.
Post a Comment