'It Was Figurative', Wike Refutes Allegation of Threat Against Seun Okinbaloye

 

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has refuted claims that he issued a literal death threat against Channels TV journalist Seun Okinbaloye. He clarified that his contentious remarks were metaphorical and had been misinterpreted.

The controversy arose during a media discussion on Friday, April 3, 2026, when Wike expressed frustration while watching Okinbaloye’s analysis on *Politics Today*, where the journalist explored concerns about Nigeria potentially becoming a one-party state. Driven by apparent irritation, Wike reportedly commented that, "Assuming I could open the screen, I would have shot him," accusing Okinbaloye of displaying bias and straying from the impartiality expected in journalism.

Wike, along with his spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, sought to ease tensions by explaining that the statement was exaggerated and solely intended to convey his deep dissatisfaction—not a threat of physical harm. According to Olayinka, Wike even called Okinbaloye afterward to clarify his intentions, and there was reportedly mutual understanding between them.

The minister doubled down on his criticism, alleging that Okinbaloye had abandoned neutrality and approached the discussion as a politically motivated participant rather than an unbiased interviewer.

In response, Seun Okinbaloye stated during a later broadcast that he remains resolute and refuses to be cowed by rhetoric of this nature.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), however, dismissed Wike’s defense, labeling his comment reckless and indicative of an intent to suppress press freedom. The NUJ called for an unequivocal public apology from the minister.

Civil society organizations, including Amnesty International, alongside the Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN), also condemned Wike’s remarks. The IBAN issued a warning, threatening to boycott the minister’s media appearances unless he apologizes publicly.