IBAN demands apology from Wike, threatens boycott over controversial comment

n n

Nyesom Wike

n

The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to retract a controversial remark and issue a public apology, warning that failure to comply could lead to a boycott of his media engagements.

n

In a statement released on Monday, IBAN expressed “deep concern” over comments made by the minister during a live programme on Channels Television on April 3, 2026. During the broadcast, Wike was quoted as saying of journalist Seun Okinbaloye, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” in reaction to the journalist’s interviewing style on the Politics Today programme.

n

IBAN Raises Alarm Over Media Safety

n

Although the minister has reportedly clarified that he did not intend any physical harm, IBAN maintained that such language is unacceptable from a public office holder. The association noted that expressions suggesting violence—even when hypothetical—could be perceived as intimidation and risk encouraging hostility toward media professionals.

n

The body further highlighted the precarious state of press freedom in Nigeria, pointing out that the country ranks 122nd out of 180 nations on the global Press Freedom Index. According to IBAN, journalists continue to face challenges including surveillance, harassment, and arbitrary arrests, making statements of this nature particularly concerning.

n

Calls for Retraction and Apology

n

IBAN outlined a three-point demand to the FCT minister:

n

A clear and unambiguous retraction of the statement
A public apology to Okinbaloye and the wider media community

n

A reaffirmation of commitment to non-violence and respect for press freedom, in line with Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)

n

Threat of Media Boycott

n

The association warned that if the minister fails to meet these demands within a reasonable timeframe, it would advise all independent broadcast stations under its umbrella to suspend coverage of his press briefings, media chats, and official engagements.

n

“This is not a step IBAN takes lightly,” the statement read, adding that independent broadcasters must safeguard their personnel and resist the normalisation of violent rhetoric in public discourse.

n

Hope for Resolution

n

Despite the strong stance, IBAN reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with public officials, expressing hope that the minister would take corrective action to allow normal media coverage to resume.

n

The statement was jointly signed by IBAN Chairman, Alhaji (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker.

n n