By Ejire Folakunmi
The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to retract a controversial remark and issue a public apology, warning that failure to do so could lead to a boycott of his official media engagements.
In a strongly worded statement, the association expressed deep concern over comments made by the minister during a live media chat on Channels Television on April 3, 2026.
During the broadcast, Wike was quoted as saying, in reference to journalist Seun Okinbaloye, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” a remark reportedly made in reaction to the journalist’s interviewing style on the Politics Today programme.
While acknowledging that the minister later indicated he did not intend any physical harm, IBAN maintained that such language, whether hypothetical or not, is inappropriate for a public office holder.
The association warned that expressions suggesting violence could be perceived as intimidation and risk normalising hostility toward journalists, particularly in an already challenging media environment.
Citing global press freedom concerns, IBAN noted that Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries on the Press Freedom Index, stressing that journalists continue to face issues such as surveillance, attacks, and arbitrary arrests.
The association argued that statements of this nature from senior government officials could further erode confidence in press freedom and worsen the operating climate for media practitioners.
IBAN, therefore, urged the minister to take immediate corrective steps, including issuing a clear retraction of the statement, offering a public apology to Okinbaloye and the wider media community, and reaffirming his commitment to non-violence and press freedom in line with Sections 22 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution.
It warned that failure to comply within a reasonable timeframe would compel the association to direct all independent broadcast stations under its umbrella to suspend coverage of the minister’s press briefings, media chats, and official engagements.
The group described the proposed boycott as a necessary measure to protect media professionals and uphold ethical standards, noting that violent rhetoric should not be normalised or rewarded with continued platform access.
IBAN, however, reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with public officials, expressing hope that the situation would be resolved amicably to allow for uninterrupted media coverage.
The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman of IBAN, Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and the Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker.
