The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to withdraw a controversial statement and publicly apologise, warning that failure to do so may result in a boycott of his media activities.
In a statement issued on Monday, IBAN expressed “deep concern” over remarks made by the minister during a live Channels Television programme on April 3, 2026. During the broadcast, Wike was quoted as saying about journalist Seun Okinbaloye, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” in response to the journalist’s style of questioning on the Politics Today programme.
IBAN raises alarm over media safety
Although the minister has reportedly clarified that he did not intend any physical harm, IBAN insisted that such remarks are inappropriate for a public office holder. The association stressed that statements implying violence—even if hypothetical—could be seen as intimidation and may incite hostility towards journalists.
The body also highlighted concerns about press freedom in Nigeria, noting that the country is ranked 122nd out of 180 nations on the global Press Freedom Index. It added that journalists continue to face challenges such as surveillance, harassment, and arbitrary arrests, making such comments particularly troubling.
calls for retraction and apology
IBAN outlined three key demands to the minister:
A clear and unambiguous withdrawal of the statement
A public apology to Okinbaloye and the broader media community
A renewed commitment to non-violence and respect for press freedom, in line with Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)
threat of media boycott
The association warned that if the minister fails to comply within a reasonable timeframe, it would advise all independent broadcast stations under its umbrella to halt coverage of his press briefings, media appearances, and official engagements.
“This is not a step IBAN takes lightly,” the statement read, adding that independent broadcasters must protect their staff and resist the normalisation of violent rhetoric in public discourse.
hope for resolution
Despite its firm position, IBAN reiterated its willingness to engage constructively with public officials and expressed hope that the minister would take corrective steps to restore normal media relations.
The statement was jointly signed by IBAN Chairman, Alhaji (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker.