The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied threatening to kill Seun Okinbaloye, a journalist with Channels Television, stating that his earlier remark was figurative and taken out of context.
Wike’s comment came during a recent media chat where he reacted to Okinbaloye’s analysis on the programme Politics Today. He had said, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” a statement that quickly drew public attention.
Clarifying his remarks, Wike explained that he did not intend any literal threat, emphasizing that his statement was an expression of frustration. He noted that he had immediately clarified during the media chat that he was not referring to actual violence.
According to him, his comment was meant to question the journalist’s approach, which he believed strayed from professional interviewing standards. He added that it was impossible to interpret his words as a real threat, especially as he also mentioned breaking a television set.
Wike further alleged that political opponents were exaggerating the situation to discredit him, referencing tensions with figures such as Atiku Abubakar.
He urged media professionals to uphold ethical standards and ensure accuracy in their reporting, warning against publishing stories that could cause unnecessary harm or misunderstanding.
The minister concluded by expressing optimism that the media industry would improve with greater adherence to professionalism and responsibility.
