The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has demanded a public apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over remarks he made about Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television.
IBAN also warned that its members could boycott the minister’s media engagements if he fails to retract the statement and apologise publicly.
The demand was contained in a statement jointly signed by IBAN Chairman, Ahmed Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker.
The controversy followed comments reportedly made by Wike, in which he said he would have reacted strongly to Okinbaloye’s remarks about the dangers of a one-party system in Nigeria.
The statement has drawn widespread criticism, with Amnesty International Nigeria describing the remarks as reckless and warning that such language could threaten press freedom and the safety of journalists.
IBAN urged the FCT minister to reaffirm his commitment to press freedom in accordance with Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee the role of the media and freedom of expression.
The association warned that failure to comply within a reasonable period could lead to a suspension of coverage by independent broadcast stations of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences organised by the FCT minister.
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