Outrage as Nigerian Minister’s ‘Shoot’ Remark Targets Journalist

April 05, 2026 – Nigeria –

A controversial statement by Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, suggesting he would have “shot” a television journalist, has sparked widespread outrage, with media organisations, civil society groups, and press freedom advocates warning of growing hostility toward journalists in the country.

The remark was directed at Seun Okinbaloye, a Channels Television anchor, following comments he made on air about Nigeria’s political trajectory and concerns over a potential drift toward a one-party system. Reacting during a media event in Abuja, Wike said, “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” a statement that quickly drew condemnation nationwide.

The backlash was immediate. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), alongside the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and advocacy group SERAP, condemned the comment as dangerous and demanded an investigation, apology, and assurances for journalist safety. Amnesty International and other civil society organisations described the remark as reckless, warning it could normalize threats against media professionals and erode democratic norms.

In response to the controversy, Okinbaloye broke his silence, stating that he would not be intimidated by the comment and reaffirming his commitment to independent journalism. He emphasized that raising critical questions about governance is a core responsibility of the press and should not attract threats or hostility.

Wike’s office later attempted to downplay the statement, describing it as “hyperbolic” and not intended as a literal threat. According to his spokesperson, the minister had since spoken with Okinbaloye, who reportedly understood the context of the remark. However, this clarification did little to quell criticism, with many observers arguing that such rhetoric from a senior government official carries significant weight regardless of intent.

Press freedom groups stress that statements invoking violence, even figuratively, contribute to a climate of fear and can embolden attacks against journalists. They argue that public officials have a heightened responsibility to uphold democratic values and protect the media’s role in holding power to account.

The incident has reignited broader concerns about press freedom in Nigeria, where journalists have faced increasing pressure, intimidation, and threats in recent years. For many advocates, the episode underscores the urgent need for stronger protections and clearer accountability mechanisms to ensure that journalists can operate without fear of reprisal.

Reference –

‘I won’t be intimidated’, journalist threatened by Wike breaks silence

https://punchng.com/nge-nuj-serap-demand-wike-probe-over-journalist-threat/

Wike’s threat to shoot journalist on live TV sparks outrage