ABUJA — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has issued a scathing condemnation of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, following a highly controversial remark directed at Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye.
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In a statement released Sunday by National President Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union labeled the Minister’s recent comments as “reckless, dangerous,” and a blatant attempt to stifle press freedom in Nigeria.
The “Shot” Heard by the Press
The outcry stems from a public statement made by Wike, in which he reportedly said:
“If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The NUJ maintains that such language from a high-ranking government official constitutes a direct threat to the safety of media practitioners. The union further revealed that they intentionally delayed their response, hoping the Minister would show remorse or offer a retraction.
According to the NUJ, the continued absence of an apology suggests the threat was a deliberate act of intimidation.
“The lack of a withdrawal or apology indicates that this was not a slip of the tongue,” the statement read, adding that the union will not stand by while the media is bullied for performing its constitutional duties.
Reporter’s Note: This development adds to the growing tension between the FCT Ministry and the Fourth Estate. I’ll keep you updated if the Ministry issues a formal response or if there are further calls for sanctions from other civil society groups.
