NGE, SERAP, NUJ Petition Tinubu to Investigate Wike’s Threat Against TV Journalist

NGE, SERAP, NUJ Petition Tinubu to Investigate Wike’s Threat Against TV Journalist

The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), the Socio‑Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have petitioned President Bola Tinubu to investigate a controversial remark by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which was interpreted as a threat against Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.

The groups, in a joint statement, condemned Wike’s comment and urged the federal government to conduct a thorough, transparent, and effective investigation. They emphasized the need to ensure the safety and protection of journalists against intimidation and harassment while carrying out their duties.

Wike’s controversial statement came during a media interaction in Abuja last Friday. Responding to comments made by Okinbaloye on Politics Today regarding concerns over the 2027 elections and the potential dominance of a single party, Wike said: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.” The remark sparked nationwide criticism, with media groups describing it as a threat to press freedom.

READ ALSO:

• BREAKING: Kebbi Assembly Speaker Muhammad Ankwai Dies in Egypt
• Yusuf Buhari, Son of Late President, Declares for House of Reps Seat
• Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi

Although Wike later clarified that his comment was figurative and expressed regret, NGE, SERAP, and NUJ warned that such rhetoric is dangerous and undermines the constitutional rights of journalists. They highlighted growing pressures on press freedom in Nigeria, noting that the country dropped ten places to 122nd in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, amid increasing reports of assaults, arrests, and intimidation against journalists.

The organisations also called on the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to work with relevant agencies to investigate threats against media practitioners and hold perpetrators accountable. They stressed that public officials must remain open to scrutiny and criticism and that journalists must be able to perform their duties without fear.

In addition, the groups cautioned against the use of lawsuits to intimidate journalists, known as strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), and urged the government to publicly reaffirm its commitment to media freedom and the protection of press rights.

The petitions reflect a broader concern over escalating threats to journalists in Nigeria and signal a call for decisive government action to safeguard democratic accountability and freedom of expression.

NGE, SERAP, NUJ Petition Tinubu to Investigate Wike’s Threat Against TV Journalist