Broadcasters Demand Apology from Wike Over Comments

The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has called for a public apology from Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), regarding remarks made by Channel TV anchor Seun Okinbaloy. Okinbaloy's comments, which suggested that the party system is destroying democracy in Nigeria, have drawn widespread condemnation, including criticism from Amnesty International, which described the language used as reckless and violent.

IBAN, led by Chairman Ahm Ramalan and General Secretary Fide Duker, has urged Wike to reaffirm his commitment to press freedom as outlined in Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution. They have stated that if Wike does not meet their request within a reasonable timeframe, independent broadcast stations will have no choice but to suspend coverage of his press briefings and media chats.