By Our Correspondent
National News – The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have called for an immediate investigation into FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over a threatening comment directed at Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
The remark, made during a media chat in Abuja, allegedly stated, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” after Okinbaloye raised concerns over the 2027 general elections appearing like a one-party contest amid internal disputes within the African Democratic Congress.
Media and rights organisations condemned the statement, warning it undermines press freedom and democratic accountability.
In a joint statement signed by NGE President Eze Anaba, General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, and SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the groups stressed that threats against journalists are part of a wider pattern of intimidation, harassment, and attacks on civic space in Nigeria.
They urged President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to ensure the safety of journalists and hold Wike accountable.
The NUJ also expressed outrage, describing Wike’s statement as “reckless and violent” and a direct attempt to intimidate the press.
NUJ President Alhassan Yahya emphasized that the union delayed commenting in expectation of a retraction, which has not occurred, suggesting deliberate intimidation.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) petitioned the United States Government through its Abuja Embassy, seeking sanctions against Wike for actions undermining democracy, including past allegations of electoral misconduct during his tenure as Rivers State governor from 2015 to 2023.
The petition highlighted intimidation, political interference, and manipulation of electoral processes, warning of risks to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The organisations reaffirmed that Nigeria’s Constitution, Section 39, and international human rights law protect freedom of expression and press freedom.
They called on law enforcement to investigate the threat, ensure accountability, and maintain an independent and diverse media landscape.
