By Asuquo Cletus
The Nigeria Union of Journalists has demanded an apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over what it described as a “reckless and violent” comment directed at a journalist with Channels Television.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union condemned Wike’s remark targeted at Channels Television presenter, Seun Okinbaloye, warning that such comments pose a serious threat to press freedom and democratic values.
The NUJ expressed “profound shock and outrage” over the minister’s statement, which it said suggested violence against a media professional. The union noted that it had initially refrained from reacting, expecting the minister to retract the comment and tender an apology.
However, the union said the absence of any remorse or clarification had heightened concerns that the statement was deliberate.
“The minister’s egregious threat constitutes a direct and unacceptable attempt to intimidate and silence the press.
“Such rhetoric from a high-ranking public official is deeply disturbing and undermines the foundational principles of democracy.The statement read. “
The NUJ further warned that the comment could create a climate of fear among journalists, particularly those engaged in critical reporting, stressing that the safety of media practitioners must be guaranteed at all times.
It, therefore, called on Wike to issue an “immediate and unreserved apology” for the remark, while urging the Federal Government to publicly condemn the statement and take steps to protect journalists across the country.
The union also appealed to media organisations, civil society groups, and pro-democracy advocates to speak out against what it described as a blatant attack on press freedom.
“The safety and security of journalists are paramount to a healthy democracy, and any attempt to stifle their voices must be met with a unified and resolute response,” the statement added.
As of the time of filing this report, the FCT minister had not responded to the NUJ’s demand.
