By Rareview
ABUJA — Nigeria’s media and civil society landscape was roiled last week as leading professional bodies and rights groups demanded an immediate investigation into a controversial remark by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, directed at Seun Okinbaloye, a prominent anchor with Channels Television.
The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) issued strongly worded statements condemning Wike’s comment during a recent media chat in Abuja, where he reportedly said, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” in reaction to a question about the trajectory of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
The minister’s remark followed Okinbaloye’s observation that the elections were beginning to resemble a one-party contest, referencing internal crises within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a joint statement signed by NGE President Eze Anaba, General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, and SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the groups warned of a deteriorating media environment, describing press freedom in Nigeria as being on a “downward spiral.”
“We are seriously concerned that press freedom is in a ‘downward spiral,’ with increasing intimidation, harassment, threats, and attacks against journalists,” the statement read, adding that public officials must tolerate a higher degree of scrutiny.
The groups emphasised that Okinbaloye, like all citizens, retains the constitutional right to freedom of expression, noting that journalism does not diminish that right. “The threat against Mr Okinbaloye illustrates the escalating risks faced by journalists and media freedom in the country,” the statement added.
In a separate reaction, NUJ President Alhassan Yahya described the minister’s statement as “reckless and violent,” calling for an immediate and unreserved apology.
The organisations urged President Bola Tinubu to take decisive steps, including directing law enforcement agencies to investigate threats against journalists and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.
They also called on the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to work with relevant agencies to probe attacks on journalists since May 29, 2023.
The controversy comes amid broader concerns about shrinking civic space in Nigeria, with reports of intimidation, unlawful detentions, and legal harassment of journalists.
In a parallel development, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) petitioned the United States government, urging targeted sanctions against Wike over alleged actions undermining democratic norms.
Analysts say the unfolding controversy underscores a critical test for Nigeria’s democratic institutions, particularly regarding the protection of press freedom and tolerance of dissenting voices.