The Nigeria Union of Journalists has expressed outrage over what it described as a “reckless and violent” statement by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, directed at Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
Wike, during a media chat last week, reportedly said that if it were possible, he would have broken his television screen and shot the journalist over comments made about the dangers of a one-party system of government.
In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the NUJ described the remark as a direct attempt to intimidate and silence the press, warning that it undermines press freedom and democratic principles in Nigeria.
The union noted that it initially delayed reacting, expecting the minister to retract the statement and issue an apology. However, it said the absence of any such response suggests the comment was deliberate.
“This calculated silence deepens our concern and reinforces the perception that the threat was intentional,” the statement read.
The NUJ warned that such remarks from a high-ranking government official create a climate of fear for journalists and send a dangerous signal that critical reporting could attract hostility and threats.
Describing the comment as “deeply disturbing,” the union said it was entirely inconsistent with the values of a free and democratic society.
The body demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from Wike, describing his remarks as “reprehensible.”
It also called on the Federal Government to publicly condemn the statement and take concrete steps to protect journalists and uphold media independence.
“It is imperative that the government ensures journalists can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or harm,” the union stated.
The NUJ further urged media organisations, civil society groups, and democracy advocates to stand in solidarity against what it termed an attack on press freedom.
It stressed that the safety and security of journalists remain essential to sustaining a healthy democracy and must be protected at all costs.
