Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’sN Federal Capital Territory Minister, has sparked controversy after saying he’d “shoot” Channels TV anchor Seun Okinbaloye over comments about Nigeria potentially becoming a one-party state.
Wike later clarified his remarks were hyperbolic, saying he didn’t mean to threaten Okinbaloye, who accepted the apology but emphasized that violent rhetoric has no place in democracy.
Okinbaloye, undeterred, vowed to continue holding power accountable, stating, “I’m not afraid and will never be intimidated.”
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society organizations and media groups, who demand Wike’s apology and commitment to press freedom.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has called for Wike’s arrest, citing past threats against officials, including INEC personnel.
Amnesty International accuses Wike of promoting violence against journalists, warning that such statements risk normalizing attacks on media practitioners.
