A presenter with Channels Television, Seun Okinbaloye, has stated that he will not be intimidated following the backlash generated by comments from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, while also appreciating the widespread support he has received.
Speaking during a broadcast on Sunday, Okinbaloye expressed gratitude to civil society groups, viewers, and both local and international organisations for standing by him.
“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.
Addressing concerns arising from the situation, he cautioned that suppressing opposing views could weaken democratic principles, noting that “our democracy is in danger if we allow one way traffic in balloting.”
He clarified that his remarks were not directed at any political group, adding that “this is not a warning to the opposition or the ruling party, but to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation.”
Okinbaloye further revealed that he had received assurances regarding his safety, stating “the ongoing reassurance from the Department of State Services,” and adding that “I also received a call from the Honourable Minister who clarified that the intention was not as conveyed.”
Despite the clarification, he warned against the use of heated language, stressing that “violent rhetoric or suggestive threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society,” especially during election periods when “clear and consistent assurances of safety are critical.”
He also highlighted the risks of such statements being misinterpreted, saying “we must not create an environment where such statements can be exploited by those with harmful intentions.”
Reaffirming his position, Okinbaloye declared, “Let me be clear, I’m not afraid, and I will never be intimidated,” adding that journalism “grounded in ethics and global best practices remains a duty to the public, not a concession to power.”
He maintained his commitment to accountability, stating, “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.”
The controversy followed remarks made by Wike during a media session in Abuja, where he reacted to Okinbaloye’s comments on a programme discussing the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress and its implications ahead of the 2027 elections.
Okinbaloye had earlier raised concerns about the possibility of a one-party state, a view criticised by the minister as inappropriate for a journalist.
Although Wike later clarified that there was no intent to cause harm, his aide, Lere Olayinka, explained that the remark was made “in a hyperbolic context… without intent,” noting that it was a reaction to what was seen as political commentary rather than neutral moderation.
However, Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the statement, describing it as “reckless and violent,” and warned that such language could endanger journalists and weaken press freedom.