The IBAN demands apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, after a controversial comment he made during a live television programme, warning that failure to issue a public apology could lead to a coordinated boycott of his future media engagements.
The demand by the Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria followed Wike’s appearance on Politics Today, a news programme on Channels Television, on April 3, 2026.
During the broadcast, Wike reacted to remarks by journalist Seun Okinbaloye and said: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The association said it was “deeply concerned” about the minister’s statement, noting that language suggesting violence, even hypothetically, was inappropriate for a senior public office holder and could be perceived as intimidation against media professionals.
In its statement, IBAN reiterated that IBAN demands apology from Wike for the reported comment, which it described as unacceptable in the context of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with press freedom and media safety.
The association highlighted that although Wike later clarified that he did not intend any physical harm, such rhetoric from a federal minister risks normalising hostility toward journalists and could undermine the safety of media practitioners.
IBAN noted that Nigeria ranks 122nd out of 180 countries on the global Press Freedom Index and cited ongoing concerns over surveillance, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of journalists, arguing that statements of this nature exacerbate those risks.
The group outlined three specific demands for resolution:
- A clear and unambiguous retraction of the minister’s remark
- A public apology to Mr. Okinbaloye and the wider media community
- A reaffirmation of commitment to non‑violence and respect for press freedom in line with constitutional guarantees
IBAN warned that if these demands are not met within a reasonable timeframe, it may advise independent broadcast stations under its umbrella to boycott press briefings, media chats, and official engagements involving the minister.
The association’s position was formalised in a statement jointly signed by IBAN Chairman, Alhaji (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker.
Broader Reaction and Media Safety Concerns
Following the controversy, other organisations have weighed in.
Press freedom and civil society groups have also condemned the remark, emphasising that threatening language, even in jest, can erode democratic norms and the independence of journalists.
Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye, whose interview precipitated the remark, has stated publicly that he will not be intimidated and thanked supporters for their solidarity.
The situation in which IBAN demands apology highlights ongoing tensions between members of the Federal Executive Council and the media community.
It has brought renewed attention to the importance of safeguarding press freedom and ensuring that public officials avoid language that could be interpreted as threatening or intimidating toward journalists.
Observers say the outcome may influence public discourse around media safety, professional conduct for government officials, and broader press freedom standards in Nigeria.
