By Joy Onu
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Nyesom Wike, over a controversial remark directed at Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the union condemned what it described as a “reckless and violent statement” attributed to the minister in which he reportedly said that if there was a way to break a television screen, he would have shot the journalist.
The NUJ said the remark represents a serious threat to press freedom and an attempt to intimidate members of the media, warning that such comments from a high-ranking government official undermine democratic principles and could endanger journalists performing their professional duties.
The statement, signed by the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, noted that the union had deliberately delayed its reaction, hoping the minister would retract the comment and offer an apology after reflection.
According to the union, the absence of any retraction or clarification has heightened concerns that the remark may have been intentional rather than a momentary lapse.
“This incendiary comment from a high-ranking government official creates a climate of fear for journalists striving to carry out their responsibilities,” the NUJ said.
The union therefore called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to condemn the remark and demonstrate its commitment to protecting journalists and safeguarding the independence of the media.
It also urged media organisations, civil society groups, and democratic advocates across the country to stand in solidarity against what it described as an attack on press freedom, stressing that the safety of journalists is critical to the survival of democracy.
