Coalition of CSOs Condemns FCT Minister’s Violent Rhetoric Against A Journalist

A coalition of 15 press freedom and civil society organisations has condemned FCT Minister Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike’s recent statement during a live media chat on Friday, 3 April 2026, saying, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”

The statement openly targeted journalist Seun Okinbaloye, political correspondent and host of Channels Television’s Politics Today, criticising his interviewing approach and opinions from his recent broadcast.

While Minister Wike later clarified he did not intend physical harm, the group maintained that hypothetical violent remarks still represent a conditional threat and should not be dismissed. Even if intended as humour, such language may intimidate both the journalist and the audience.

“We assert that conditional threats or violent statements against journalists contribute to a climate of fear, undermining the fundamental principles of a free and independent press, especially as Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.

“Threats or violent language, whether explicit or veiled, not only endanger individual reporters but also erode public trust in democratic discourse.

“Public officials must demonstrate respect for these principles and uphold standards of decorum and restraint in all communications.

“With a press freedom index ranking of 122 out of 180 countries, Nigeria remains one of West Africa’s most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists. Media professionals are routinely monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily arrested, particularly during electoral campaigns. Incidents like this can further imperil journalists and highlight the urgent need for balanced and responsible political engagement, especially from public officials.

“We call on the FCT minister to:

1. Fully retract the statement.
2. Issue an apology to Mr Seun Okinbaloye and the wider media community, and
3. Reaffirm a clear commitment to non-violence and the defence of press freedom as a public official on oath to abide by the Constitution.

“Furthermore, we urge all institutions and public figures to reject violent rhetoric against the media and promote a culture of respectful media dialogue, even amid strong disagreements.

“These principles are supported by Sections 22 and 39 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), which affirm the media’s role in holding officials accountable and guarantee the right to hold opinions and receive and impart information freely.

“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists everywhere.

It was by the following groups: 1. International Press Institute (IPI), Nigeria; 2. International Press Centre (IPC); 3. Media Rights Agenda (MRA); 4. Enough is Enough Nigeria (EIE); 5. Centre for Journalism Innovation & Development (CJID); 6. Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO); 7. YIAGA Africa; 8. International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR); 9. Global Rights; 10. Dataphyte Foundation; 11. Accountability Lab Nigeria; 12. ElechHer; 13. Kebekatche Women Development Resource Centre; 14. DigiCivic Initiative and 15. Hope Behind Bars Africa

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