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Members of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, International Press Centre (IPC), Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO) and other civil society organisations have strongly condemned recent remarks made by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, against anchor of Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, Seun Okinbaloye.
Recall that during a live media chat aired on Channels Television on April 3, 2026, Wike said: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The group noted that the statement was indisputably directed at Okinbaloye, criticising his interviewing style and the views he expressed during his latest show.
Although the group noted Wike later clarified that he did not intend to physically harm the journalist, they, however, cautioned: “We are of the firm view that even such 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.
“We assert that conditional threats or violent statements against journalists contribute to a climate of fear, undermining the fundamental principles of a free and independent press, especially as journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.”
Specifically, the group insisted public officials must demonstrate respect for these principles and uphold standards of decorum and restraint in all communications.
They urged Wike to retract the statement; issue an apology to Okinbaloye and the wider media community, and reaffirm a clear commitment to non-violence and the defence of press freedom as a public official on oath to abide by the constitution.
