The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded a formal apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following his inflammatory comments directed at Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
During a media chat last week, Wike stated that he wished he could have broken his television screen and shot Okinbaloye in response to the journalist’s commentary regarding the dangers of a one-party system.
The NUJ characterized the minister’s statement as a direct and unacceptable attempt to intimidate the press, arguing that such rhetoric gravely undermines press freedom and Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
The union explained that it deliberately delayed its response in the hope that Wike would reflect on his words and demonstrate remorse.
However, the absence of a retraction suggests that the statement was a calculated act of intimidation rather than a momentary lapse in judgment.
In a statement signed by National President Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the NUJ noted that such incendiary remarks from a high-ranking official create a climate of fear, signaling that critical reporting will be met with hostility.
The union demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from the minister and called upon the Federal Government to condemn the threat.
The NUJ also urged media organizations and civil society groups to stand in solidarity, emphasizing that the safety of journalists is paramount to a healthy democracy.
