The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has come under heavy criticism after making a controversial comment suggesting he would have “shot” a television anchor during a live broadcast.
The remark was made in Abuja during a media interaction while reacting to comments by Seun Okinbaloye on Politics Today, aired on Channels Television.
Okinbaloye had questioned the direction of Nigeria’s democracy, particularly concerns about a possible slide towards a one-party system, amid challenges within opposition parties ahead of future elections.
Responding, Wike expressed anger over the comment, stating that he would have “shot” the presenter if it were possible, a statement that has since triggered widespread reactions.
Human rights group Amnesty International Nigeria faulted the minister’s comment, warning that such language from a senior government official could encourage hostility against journalists.
The organisation described the remark as dangerous and unacceptable, stressing that it could weaken press freedom and embolden attacks on media practitioners.
Also reacting, the Nigeria Union of Journalists condemned the statement, describing it as a threat to the safety of journalists and democratic values.
Its President, Alhassan Yahaya, called for an immediate retraction and apology, cautioning that such utterances should not be tolerated in a democratic society.
The media office of Atiku Abubakar equally criticised the development, saying the comment reflected intolerance and posed a risk to freedom of expression.
It warned that when public officials resort to violent rhetoric against the press, it undermines democracy and threatens accountability.
Further condemnation came from the spokesman of the African Democratic Congress, Bolaji Abdullahi, who described the statement as irresponsible and urged Nigerians to defend free speech.
Despite the backlash, Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, defended the minister, saying the comment was figurative and misunderstood.
He stated that Wike had already spoken with Okinbaloye to clarify his intention, adding that the remark was made out of frustration and not meant to be taken literally.
