Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye, has declared he will not be intimidated following controversial remarks by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, while thanking Nigerians for their support.
Speaking during a live broadcast on Sunday, Mr Okinbaloye expressed appreciation to civil society organisations, viewers, and both local and international bodies for their solidarity.
“I sincerely want to thank civil society organisations, our viewers, for your love and your comments and your solidarity… Your support is deeply appreciated and reinforces our collective commitment to truth and accountability,” he said.
The controversy followed remarks by Mr Wike during a media parley in Abuja, where he reacted to comments made by Mr Okinbaloye on a Channels Television programme discussing the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress.
During the programme, the anchor raised concerns about the possibility of Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state—comments the minister criticised as inappropriate for a journalist.
Although Mr Wike later clarified that he did not intend physical harm, his aide, Lere Olayinka, described the remark as hyperbolic and without intent.
“The Minister never meant that he would shoot Seun Okinbaloye… he was angry seeing Okinbaloye descending into the political arena,” Mr Olayinka said.
Mr Okinbaloye however, warned that democracy could be threatened if dissenting voices are suppressed, stressing that concerns about a one-party state affect all Nigerians, not just political actors.
“This is not a warning to the opposition or the ruling party, but to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation,” he added.
Safety assurances
Mr Okinbaloye disclosed that he had received reassurances regarding his safety from the Department of State Services.
He also confirmed receiving a call from Mr Wike, who clarified that his earlier remarks were not intended as a threat.
“I also received a call from the Honourable Minister who clarified that the intention was not as conveyed,” he said.
Stand on press freedom
Despite the clarification, the journalist cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric, noting that such language could pose risks if misinterpreted.
“Violent rhetoric or suggestive threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society,” he said.
Reaffirming his stance, he declared: “Let me be clear, I’m not afraid, and I will never be intimidated.”
He emphasised that journalism grounded in ethics and global best practices remains a duty to the public.
“I will continue to do what I love, asking the necessary questions, holding power to account… If that commitment comes at a cost, so be it,” he added.
The incident has drawn reactions from rights groups, including Amnesty International Nigeria, which condemned the minister’s comment.
The organisation described the remark as “reckless and violent,” warning that such rhetoric could endanger journalists and undermine press freedom.
It added that statements of that nature risk normalising violence and encouraging attacks on media professionals.
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