Wike Clarifies Comments on Journalist Amid Media Protests

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, clarified his earlier remarks about journalist Seun Okinbaloye, stating he did not mean to imply he would "shoot" him. Wike's comments were made during a media chat and were perceived as threatening, prompting widespread condemnation from various media groups, including the Coalition for Media Freedom and Amnesty International.

These organizations demanded an immediate apology from Wike and emphasized the importance of upholding press freedom in Nigeria, particularly as the political climate appears to be narrowing ahead of the 2027 general elections. Wike's senior special assistant, Lere Olayinka, explained that the minister's comments were made in a hyperbolic context and were not intended to be taken literally.

However, the coalition noted that even hypothetical threats can contribute to a climate of fear for journalists. Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries in the global press freedom index, indicating a challenging environment for journalists.