NUJ Condemns Wike’s Alleged Threat Against Channels TV Journalist

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed shock and outrage over what it described as a reckless and violent statement allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye.

In a statement issued on April 5, 2026, and signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the NUJ described the Minister’s comment—“If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him”—as a direct attempt to intimidate the press and undermine press freedom and democratic principles in Nigeria.

The union said it initially delayed responding to the incident in the expectation that the Minister would show remorse and retract the statement. However, the absence of any apology or clarification, it noted, has heightened concerns that the remark was deliberate rather than a momentary lapse.

According to the NUJ, such statements from a senior government official create a climate of fear for journalists carrying out their professional responsibilities and send a dangerous signal that critical reporting may be met with hostility.

The union therefore demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from the Minister and called on the Federal Government to publicly condemn the alleged threat, reaffirming its commitment to the protection of journalists and the independence of the media.

The NUJ also urged media organizations, civil society groups, and democracy advocates to stand in solidarity against what it described as a blatant attack on press freedom, stressing that the safety and security of journalists remain essential to sustaining a healthy democratic society.