NUJ Blasts Wike, Demands Apology Over Threat To Journalist

NIGERIA, ABUJA – The Nigeria Union of Journalists has condemned what it described as a dangerous threat issued by Nyesom Wike against a television journalist, warning that such remarks undermine press freedom and democratic accountability.

In a statement released on April 5, 2026, and signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union expressed shock over Wike’s comment directed at Seun Okinbaloye during a televised engagement.

The union quoted the minister as saying, “If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him,” describing the statement as reckless and capable of intimidating journalists across the country.

According to the NUJ, the remark constitutes a direct threat against media practitioners and raises serious concerns about the safety of journalists operating within Nigeria’s increasingly tense political environment.

The statement, issued in Abuja, noted that the union initially withheld its reaction, expecting a prompt apology or clarification from the minister after the controversial outburst.

However, the NUJ said the absence of any retraction or expression of remorse from Wike suggests that the comment may have been deliberate rather than an emotional slip.

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“This calculated silence deepens our concern and reinforces the perception that the threat was intentional,” the statement said, underscoring the gravity of the minister’s position as a public official.

The union further stressed that such rhetoric from a high-ranking government official creates a hostile climate for journalists tasked with holding power to account through critical reporting and investigative journalism.

It warned that statements suggesting violence against media professionals could embolden others to act against journalists, thereby weakening democratic institutions and public trust in governance.

Citing constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression, the NUJ maintained that any attempt to intimidate journalists represents a violation of democratic norms and international standards on press freedom.

The organisation emphasised that the media remains a critical pillar of democracy, serving as a watchdog that ensures transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse.

The union demanded an immediate and unreserved apology from Wike, insisting that anything short of a clear retraction would amount to tacit endorsement of threats against journalists.

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It also called on the Federal Government to publicly condemn the minister’s statement, noting that silence from authorities could be interpreted as complicity or indifference to attacks on press freedom.

“The government must demonstrate its commitment to protecting journalists and safeguarding the independence of the media through clear and decisive action,” the NUJ stated.

The statement further urged relevant security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure that journalists across the country are protected from any form of harassment, intimidation, or violence.

Media stakeholders, including editors and newsroom managers, were also encouraged to prioritise the safety of their staff, particularly those covering politically sensitive issues.

The NUJ called on civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and international observers to take note of the development and support efforts aimed at defending press freedom in Nigeria.

It stressed that the safety and security of journalists are fundamental to sustaining a healthy democratic system, where citizens can access accurate and timely information without interference.

Observers say the incident highlights growing tensions between political office holders and the media, especially in an era where public scrutiny of governance continues to intensify.

Analysts note that public officials are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, particularly in their engagements with journalists who serve as intermediaries between government and the public.

The NUJ warned that failure to address the issue decisively could set a dangerous precedent, where threats against journalists become normalised within political discourse.

It reiterated its commitment to defending the rights of journalists and ensuring that media practitioners can perform their duties without fear of retaliation or harm.

The union concluded by urging unity among media organisations and democratic stakeholders, emphasising that collective action remains essential in resisting any attempt to silence the press.

As of the time of filing this report, the office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory had not issued an official response to the NUJ’s demands.