Our Reporter, Abuja
The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to retract what it described as a “threatening” remark against a television journalist and issue a public apology, warning that failure to do so could trigger a media boycott.
In a statement issued by Ahmed Tijani Ramalan and Fidelis Duker, Chairman and Publicity Secretary respectively, IBAN said it was deeply concerned over comments made by the minister during a live programme on Channels Television on April 3, 2026.
During the broadcast, Wike, reacting to the interviewing style of journalist Seun Okinbaloye on the programme Politics Today, said, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
Although the minister reportedly clarified that he did not intend physical harm, IBAN said the remark was inappropriate for a public official and could be interpreted as intimidation.
“Any expression of violent intent, even if hypothetical, is unacceptable from someone in public office,” the association said.
“Such language risks normalising hostility toward the media.”
The body noted that Nigeria’s press environment remains fragile, citing the country’s ranking of 122 out of 180 on the global Press Freedom Index, and warned that comments of such nature could further endanger journalists who already face surveillance, attacks and arbitrary arrests.
IBAN, the umbrella body representing independent broadcast stations across the country, demanded that the minister take immediate steps to address the situation.
It urged Wike to clearly retract the statement, issue a public apology to Okinbaloye and the media community, and reaffirm his commitment to press freedom in line with constitutional provisions.
The association warned that failure to comply within a reasonable timeframe would lead to a directive advising member stations to suspend coverage of all press briefings, media engagements and official events involving the FCT minister.
“This is not a step IBAN takes lightly,” the statement added.
“However, independent broadcasters must protect their personnel and uphold the principle that violent rhetoric should not be normalised or rewarded with platform access.”
IBAN said it remains open to constructive engagement with public officials but stressed that the responsibility now lies with the minister to take corrective action to avoid disruption in media coverage.
Meanwhile, Okinbaloye on Sunday doubled down on his views insisting that violent rhetorics have no place in a democracy.
He stated: “The fact remains that our democracy is in danger if we allow one-way traffic in balloting.
“This is not a warning to the opposition or ruling party. But to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation.
“I received a call from the honourable minister, who clarified the intention was not as conveyed.
“While that is noted, it is important that violent rhetoric or threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society.
“Let me clear: I am not afraid and I will never be intimidated.
“We may disagree and as humans we may err, but dissent must never descend into hostility or harm.
“I will continue to do what I love, asking the necessary questions and holding power to account.”
