The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to withdraw a controversial statement he made about Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
The association warned that it could boycott all media engagements involving the minister if he fails to issue a public apology.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmed Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker, IBAN expressed concern over remarks made by Wike during a live television interview.
The controversy arose after the minister reacted to Okinbaloye’s commentary on Nigeria’s democracy during the programme Politics Today, stating that if it were possible, he would have “shot” the journalist through the screen. He later clarified that the comment was not meant as a literal threat.
Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, defended the remark as exaggerated and taken out of context. However, IBAN insisted that such statements are inappropriate for a public official, regardless of intent.
The group warned that comments suggesting violence could be perceived as intimidation and may contribute to a hostile environment for journalists, especially as Nigeria continues to face challenges related to press freedom.
IBAN urged the minister to retract the statement, apologise publicly, and reaffirm his commitment to media freedom as guaranteed by the Constitution.
It added that failure to comply could lead to a directive for member stations to suspend coverage of all press briefings and official engagements involving the minister.
Despite the warning, the association noted its willingness to maintain constructive engagement with public officials, expressing hope that the issue would be resolved promptly.