NUJ Blasts Wike Over Threat to Journalist, Demands Apology
By Zare Baba
Abuja, April 5, 2026 The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has come down hard on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over what it described as a “reckless and dangerous” threat directed at Channels Television journalist, Seun Okinbaloye.
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The Union, in a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, expressed shock and outrage over the Minister’s comment, “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” warning that such rhetoric poses a grave danger to press freedom and democratic governance.
The NUJ said it had initially withheld its reaction in anticipation of a possible retraction and apology from the Minister. However, the absence of any remorse or clarification, it noted, raises serious concerns about the intent behind the statement.
“The continued silence suggests that the comment was not a mere slip but a deliberate attempt to intimidate and silence the press,” the Union stated.
Describing the remark as “incendiary and unacceptable,” the NUJ warned that statements of such nature, especially from a high-ranking government official, risk creating a climate of fear among journalists and media practitioners across the country.
The Union further stressed that the comment sends a chilling message that critical reporting could be met with hostility or even threats of violence, an outcome it said is incompatible with the principles of a free and open society.
Consequently, the NUJ demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from Wike, insisting that anything short of that would further erode public confidence in the government’s commitment to democratic norms.
Beyond the apology, the Union called on the Federal Government to take a firm and unequivocal stand by condemning the Minister’s statement and reaffirming its responsibility to protect journalists.
“It is imperative that concrete steps are taken to ensure journalists can carry out their duties without fear of intimidation, harassment, or harm,” the statement added.
The NUJ also urged media organisations, civil society groups, and pro-democracy advocates to rise in unison against what it termed a blatant attack on press freedom.
According to the Union, safeguarding the safety and independence of journalists remains central to the survival of democracy, warning that any attempt to silence the media must be collectively resisted.
The statement was signed by the NUJ National President, Comr. Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi.
