Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is facing a wave of criticism following a controversial comment in which he suggested he would have “shot” a television presenter over remarks made during a live broadcast.
The comment, directed at Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television, has ignited widespread backlash from media groups, civil society organisations, and members of the public.
The controversy stems from Wednesday’s edition of Politics Today, where Okinbaloye expressed concern about Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
He noted that competitive politics strengthens democracy, warning against a situation where only one dominant party remains viable.
“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,” the presenter said, referencing challenges within opposition parties.
Reacting during his monthly media chat, Wike accused the journalist of abandoning neutrality and taking sides.
“When I was watching Politics Today, Seun… If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” Wike said. “You are an interviewer; you are now telling them your own views… which means you have already taken a position.”
Although the minister later clarified that he had no intention of physical harm, the remark has continued to draw sharp reactions, particularly from press freedom advocates.
In a joint statement signed by 14 organisations, a coalition of civil society and media rights groups condemned the comment and called for a public apology.
“Even if meant humorously, such rhetoric can be perceived as intimidation,” the statement read. “Conditional threats or violent expressions against journalists contribute to a climate of fear and undermine the principles of a free and independent press.”
The groups warned that such language, especially from high-ranking public officials, could embolden hostility toward journalists and weaken democratic accountability.
They also highlighted Nigeria’s press freedom challenges, noting that the country ranks 122 out of 180 on global press freedom indices, with journalists frequently facing harassment, surveillance, and arrest—particularly during election cycles.
The incident has also sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, where users expressed a mix of outrage, criticism, and sarcasm, with many calling the remark inappropriate and unbecoming of a public official.
Below are some reactions on Facebook:
Skyman Emmanuel, “Officer Yerima, where are you?”
Ogunyemi Olusayo, “I know he talks too much.”
Timothy Samuel, “Too much of alcohol!”
Emeka Bright Elem, “This Wike will be a dictator.”
(Daily Trust)
