Amnesty International Slams Wike Over ‘Shooting’ Remark Directed at TV Journalist
Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over what it described as a dangerous and inflammatory comment suggesting violence against a journalist.
In a statement, the organization condemned Wike’s remark made during a live television appearance, where he reacted to a comment by Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television, saying: “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
Amnesty International warned that such rhetoric could incite violence and create a hostile environment for media professionals simply carrying out their duties. The group noted that statements of this nature risk normalizing aggression against journalists and undermining press freedom.
It further stated that the comment appears to contravene Nigeria’s broadcasting standards, which are enforced by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission.
Describing the remark as unlawful and unacceptable—particularly coming from a senior government official—Amnesty International called on Wike to immediately retract his statement and issue a public apology. The organization also urged Nigerian authorities to avoid tolerating such conduct, regardless of political affiliations.
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