The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed outrage over a controversial remark by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, directed at Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television, describing it as a threat to press freedom.
In a statement issued on Monday, NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, said the union was “profoundly shocked and outraged” by the minister’s comment: “If there’s anyway to broke the screen, I would have shot him.”
Yahya described the statement as “reckless and violent,” adding that it “constitutes a direct and unacceptable attempt to intimidate and silence the press, thereby gravely undermining press freedom and the foundational principles of democracy in Nigeria.”
The NUJ said it initially withheld its reaction in the expectation that Wike would retract the statement and apologise.
“The union deliberately delayed issuing this statement, holding a sincere belief that Barrister Wike would, upon reflection, demonstrate immediate remorse and promptly withdraw his dangerous comment,” Yahya said.
“However, the regrettable absence of any such retraction or apology strongly suggests that the statement was not a momentary lapse but rather a deliberate and intentional act designed to intimidate.”
The union warned that such comments from a senior government official could create fear among journalists and discourage critical reporting.
“This incendiary comment… creates a climate of fear for journalists striving to uphold their professional duties. It sends a dangerous message that critical reporting will be met with hostility and threats of violence,” the NUJ president added.
The NUJ called for “an immediate and unreserved apology” from Wike, and urged the Federal Government to take a clear stance.
“We call upon the Federal Government to swiftly and unequivocally condemn this threat, demonstrating its commitment to protecting journalists and safeguarding the independence of the media,” Yahya said.
The union also urged media organisations and civil society groups to stand united in defending press freedom, stressing that “the safety and security of journalists are paramount to a healthy democracy.”
