Media and civil society organisations have called on the Federal Government to investigate the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over an alleged threat directed at a Channels Television journalist, warning that the incident poses a danger to press freedom in Nigeria.
The call was made by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project following remarks reportedly made by the minister during a media chat in Abuja.
The controversy stemmed from comments by Channels Television presenter, Seun Okinbaloye, who raised concerns about Nigeria’s political direction ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking on his programme, the journalist stressed the importance of competitive politics, stating that, “What makes the race very interesting is when it’s competitive and not when only one party stands… If this hope is dashed, we are doomed democratically speaking.”
Reacting during the media chat, Wike criticised the presenter for expressing what he described as a personal political opinion rather than maintaining neutrality as an interviewer. In his response, the minister allegedly said, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
In separate statements, the groups condemned the comment and urged President Bola Tinubu to order a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. They also called for measures to ensure the safety of the journalist and others facing threats in the line of duty.
The organisations expressed concern over what they described as a worsening climate for press freedom, citing increasing cases of intimidation, harassment and attacks on journalists across the country. They noted that public officials must be open to scrutiny and criticism, stressing that journalists have the right to express views on issues of public interest.
Similarly, the NUJ described the remark as reckless and capable of creating fear among media professionals, demanding an immediate apology from the minister and urging the Federal Government to take a firm stand against threats to journalists.
The groups further warned that failure to hold perpetrators accountable could embolden others and deepen what they described as a culture of impunity against the media, ultimately undermining democratic accountability in the country.
Meanwhile, Okinbaloye, reacting to the controversy, said he would not be intimidated, appreciating the support he received from viewers and civil society groups. He also cautioned against suppressing dissenting voices, noting that democratic values could be weakened if alternative views are not allowed.
Although aides to the minister have downplayed the comment as exaggerated and figurative, rights advocates insist that such statements should not be tolerated, emphasizing the need to protect freedom of expression and ensure a safe working environment for journalists.