NUJ Furious Over Wike’s Threat to Shoot Channels TV Journalist, Demands Apology

By Ifeyinwa Ike

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has slammed FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike for a shocking threat against Channels Television Journalist, Seun Okinbaloye, calling it a direct attack on press freedom.

In a strongly worded media release dated April 5, 2026, NUJ National President Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi condemned Wike’s remark: “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.” The union described it as a deliberate attempt to intimidate journalists and undermine democracy.

The NUJ delayed its statement in hopes Wike would apologise, but his silence only deepened concerns. “This was no momentary lapse but a calculated act,” the release stated, warning it creates fear among reporters doing their jobs.

The outburst, they argue, signals that critical coverage could provoke violence from officials, antithetical to a free society. It comes amid rising tensions over media scrutiny of government actions.

The NUJ is demanding: an unreserved public apology from Wike, swift condemnation and action from the Federal Government to protect journalists, concrete steps to ensure media safety without reprisals.

The union rallied media organizations, civil society, and democracy advocates to stand together. “Journalists’ security is key to a healthy democracy,” Abdullahi emphasised.

Wike’s office has not responded to requests for comment as of April 6, 2026. This incident highlights ongoing struggles for press freedom in Nigeria, where reporters face harassment and threats.