Outrage Trails Wike’s Alleged Threat As NUJ Demands Apology, Government Action
In a democracy already grappling with tensions around free expression, words from those in power can either strengthen public trust or dangerously erode it.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has issued a strongly worded condemnation of what it describes as a reckless and violent remark allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against Channels Television journalist, Seun Okinbaloye.
The Union expressed “profound shock and outrage” over the Minister’s statement, “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” describing it as a direct attempt to intimidate the media and undermine press freedom in Nigeria.
According to the NUJ, it had initially withheld its response in anticipation of a possible apology or retraction from the Minister.
However, the absence of any such gesture, the Union noted, raises serious concerns about the intent behind the comment, suggesting it may not have been a mere slip but a calculated act.
The NUJ warned that such rhetoric from a high-ranking government official could foster a climate of fear among journalists, discouraging critical reporting and threatening the core values of a free and open society.
Demanding accountability, the Union called on Wike to issue an immediate and unreserved apology, while urging the Federal Government to unequivocally condemn the statement and take concrete steps to ensure the safety and independence of journalists.
It also appealed to media organisations, civil society groups, and democracy advocates to unite against what it termed a blatant attack on press freedom, stressing that the protection of journalists remains vital to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
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