The Nigeria Guild of Editors, and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project have condemned threats made by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, against Channels Television presenter, Seun Okinbaloye.
They urged the federal government to launch a prompt and transparent investigation on the dangerous comment of the minister.
Wike, during a media chat in Abuja, reacted angrily to Okinbaloye’s comments on the 2027 elections, stating he would have “shot him” if possible. The remark followed the journalist’s concerns about increasing one-party dominance and internal crises within opposition ranks.
Wike later suggested journalists should avoid expressing personal opinions.
In a joint statement, the groups described the comment as dangerous and indicative of growing hostility toward the press. They warned that press freedom in Nigeria is in a “downward spiral,” marked by intimidation, harassment, threats, and strategic lawsuits aimed at silencing journalists.
They stated that freedom of expression is a constitutional right that applies fully to journalists, including the right to express views that may offend or disturb.
The organisations cited broader concerns, including assaults on dozens of journalists during protests and Nigeria’s decline in global press freedom rankings.
They argued that persistent failure by authorities to investigate abuses has encouraged impunity and weakened democratic accountability.
NGE and SERAP called on the government to ensure the safety of journalists, prosecute offenders, reaffirm support for media freedom, and uphold constitutional and international human rights obligations protecting free expression and the press.
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