Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over a controversial remark in which he said he could “shoot” a television anchor during a live broadcast. The comment has sparked public debate about press freedom, the safety of journalists, and the tone of political discourse in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Saturday, Amnesty International Nigeria described the minister’s words as “reckless and violent.” The group warned that such language, especially from a senior government official, could encourage attacks on journalists and weaken the country’s democratic values.
The remark was made during a media parley in Abuja, where Wike reacted to comments by Seun Okinbaloye, a presenter with Channels Television. Okinbaloye had raised concerns about the possibility of Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state while discussing internal issues within the opposition African Democratic Congress and the wider implications for the 2027 general elections.
Responding to the programme, Wike criticised the anchor’s comments and said, “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.” Though he later clarified that he did not mean actual physical harm, the statement quickly drew attention and criticism from civil society groups and members of the public.
Amnesty International Nigeria said the comment violated accepted standards of public communication and posed a risk of normalising violence against media professionals. According to the organisation, such remarks could send the wrong message in a country where journalists already face various forms of pressure and threats.
“What Wike said carries the danger of normalising violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists for just doing their job,” the group stated. “This level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable.”
The organisation also pointed to Nigeria’s broadcasting regulations, which are enforced by the National Broadcasting Commission. It noted that public officials are expected to respect these rules and promote responsible communication, especially when addressing issues involving the media.
Amnesty International called on the minister to withdraw the statement and issue a public apology. It stressed that leaders must set a good example and avoid language that could be interpreted as threatening or harmful.
The controversy has once again brought attention to the relationship between politicians and the media in Nigeria. In recent years, there have been concerns about the safety of journalists and the increasing tension between government officials and media organisations. Reports by local and international groups have highlighted cases of harassment, intimidation, and, in some instances, physical attacks on journalists.
Press freedom is considered a key part of democracy, allowing journalists to report on issues, hold leaders accountable, and inform the public. However, challenges remain in Nigeria, where political pressure and security concerns sometimes affect how journalists operate.
Wike’s comment also comes at a time when political activities are gradually building up ahead of the 2027 elections. Discussions about opposition strength, party alliances, and the future of Nigeria’s democracy have become more frequent in public debates and media programmes.
The issue raised by Okinbaloye during the broadcast—whether Nigeria could become a one-party state—has been a subject of concern among political analysts. Some observers believe that the weakening of opposition parties could affect political competition, while others argue that the situation is part of the normal evolution of the country’s political system.
Following the backlash, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, defended the minister. He explained that the statement was not meant to be taken literally but was a figure of speech used to express anger.
“The Minister never meant that he would shoot Seun Okinbaloye,” Olayinka said. “What the minister meant was that he was upset seeing the anchor speaking in a way that suggested he was taking sides in a political matter, rather than acting as a neutral interviewer.”
He added that the remark was made in a hyperbolic context and had no intent of promoting violence. Olayinka also urged the public to ignore what he described as attempts to twist the comment for political reasons.
Despite this clarification, reactions have continued to pour in from different quarters. Media organisations, rights groups, and some members of the public have insisted that public officials must be careful with their words, given their influence and authority.
This incident highlights the importance of responsible communication, especially in a diverse and politically active country like Nigeria. Experts often advise that leaders should promote dialogue, respect differing opinions, and avoid statements that could be seen as threats.
For journalists, the situation serves as a reminder of the challenges they face while carrying out their duties. Reporting on politics and governance can be sensitive, and media professionals often have to navigate complex situations to provide balanced coverage.
Many Nigerians are now watching closely to see how the issue will be resolved. Some expect the minister to address the concerns raised and possibly issue a formal apology, while others believe the matter will fade with time.
As the debate continues, the incident has opened a wider conversation about the need to protect press freedom and ensure that journalists can work without fear. It also underscores the role of civil society organisations like Amnesty International in holding public officials accountable.