A network of press freedom and civil society organisations has condemned recent remarks by Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), directed at Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.Nigerian Politics Updates
At a media chat in Abuja on Friday, Wike threatened to shoot Okinbaloye over the journalist’s comments regarding the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.
On his programme, Okinbaloye had said it was disappointing that the 2027 elections were shaping up as a contest dominated by a single political party, citing the crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He warned that Nigeria is “doomed democratically” if the only viable opposition – the ADC – is unable to contest the 2027 elections.Real-time News Feed
Reacting to Okinbaloye, Wike said: “I was surprised yesterday, thoroughly surprised. If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
In a statement signed by 14 organisations, the network demanded that Wike retract his remarks, apologise to Okinbaloye and the media community, and “reaffirm a clear commitment to non-violence and the defence of press freedom as a public official sworn to uphold the constitution.”Breaking News Alerts
The statement noted that, although the minister later clarified that he did not intend to physically harm the journalist, “even hypothetical expressions of violent intent constitute a conditional threat and cannot be dismissed as harmless.”
“Even if meant humorously, such rhetoric can be perceived as intimidation by both the journalist and the audience,” it added.Nigerian Politics Updates
The CSOs and press freedom groups warned that threats or violent language, whether direct or indirect, put journalists at risk and undermine public trust in democracy.
“With a press freedom index ranking of 122 out of 180 countries, Nigeria remains one of West Africa’s most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists,” the statement said.
The statement reads, ”With a press freedom index ranking of 122 out of 180 countries, Nigeria remains one of West Africa’s most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists. Media professionals are routinely monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily arrested, particularly during electoral campaigns. Incidents like this can further imperil journalists and highlight the urgent need for balanced and responsible political engagement, especially from public officials.”
“Media professionals are routinely monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily arrested, particularly during electoral campaigns.
“Incidents like this can further imperil journalists and highlight the urgent need for balanced and responsible political engagement, especially from public officials.”
The network also called on institutions and public figures to reject violent rhetoric against the media and to promote a culture of respectful engagement, even amid strong disagreements.