by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
In a swift reaction, 14 network of press freedom, freedom of expression and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have strongly condemned the recent remarks made by FCT Minister, Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, against a Journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
“According to them, conditional threats, violent statements against journalists contribute to climate of fear, undermine fundamental principles of free, independent press, especially as Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.”
Minister Wike reportedly erred when he stated during a live media chat aired on Channels Television on Friday, 3 April 2026, that: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The threats, according to statement shared across States Journalists body, the 14 CSOs described it as an undisguisedly directed at Journalist Seun Okinbaloye, a Political Correspondent and anchor of Channels Television’s “Politics Today” programme, criticizing his interviewing style and views expressed during his latest show.
“The undersigned network of press freedom, freedom of expression and civil society organisations strongly condemns the recent remarks made by FCT Minister, Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, who stated during a live media chat aired on Channels Television on Friday, 3 April 2026, that: “If there was any way to break the screen, | would have shot him,” it stated.
It, however, noted that even though, Minister Wike later clarified that he ‘did not intend to physically harm the journalist,’ the CSOs are of the firm views that even such hypothetical expressions of violent intent constituted a conditional threat and cannot be dismissed as harmless.
Titled: ‘FCT Minister’s Media Chat: We Condemn Violent Rhetoric Against A Journalist,’ the CSOs noted that, “Even, if it was meant humorously, such rhetoric can be perceived as intimidation by both the journalist and the audience.”
They 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.
The group added that, “Threats or violent language, whether explicit or veiled, not only endanger individual reporters but also erode public trust in democratic discourse.”
While it warned public officials to demonstrate respect for the above-listed principles and uphold standards of decorum and restraint in all communications, CSOs recounted that 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.”
The Rights group also called on the FCT Minister to fully retract the statement, issue an apology to Mr. Seun Okinbaloye and the wider media community, and against the media and promote a culture of respectful media dialogue, even amid holding officials accountable and guarantee the right to hold opinions and received.
The 14 CSOs comprised of Centre for Journalism Innovation &Development (CJID), International Press Centre (IPC), Media Rights Agenda (MRA), YIAGA Africa, Accountability Lab Nigeria, Global Rights, Digi Civic Initiative, amongst other laudable Media Rights and press freedom bodies.