The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned what it described as a reckless and threatening statement allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union expressed shock over Wike’s comment: “If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him,” describing it as a direct attempt to intimidate the press and undermine democratic principles.
The NUJ noted that it initially withheld its reaction, expecting the minister to retract the statement and offer an apology. However, the absence of any such response, the union said, suggests the remark may have been deliberate rather than a slip.
According to the NUJ, such comments from a senior government official risk creating a hostile environment for journalists and could discourage critical reporting. The union warned that threats of violence against media professionals are incompatible with a free and open society.
The NUJ has therefore called on Wike to issue an immediate and unreserved apology. It also urged the Federal Government to publicly condemn the statement and take concrete steps to ensure the safety and independence of journalists across the country.
The union further appealed to media organisations, civil society groups, and pro-democracy advocates to stand united in defending press freedom, stressing that the protection of journalists is essential to sustaining democracy.
