The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (|BAN) on Sunday announced the boycott of press briefings by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike on all members’ platforms, until he retracts his threat to
shoot Channels Television journalist, Mr. Seun Okinbaloye.
IBAN also demanded that Wike tenders public apology for the threat.
IBAN is the recognised umbrella body representing the interests of all independent broadcast stations across the country.
It could be recalled that on Friday, April 3, 2026, during a live media chat on Channels Television, the Minister stated concerning Okinbaloye.
Wike said “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
The comment was made in reaction to the journalist’s interviewing style on the Politics Today programme.
Making its position known on the issue, IBAN said in a statement signed by the Chairman, Alh (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker:
“While the Minister has since indicated he did not intend physical harm, IBAN believes that any expression of violent intent – even hypothetical- is inappropriate for a public official.
“Such language can be perceived as intimidation and
risks normalising hostility toward the media.
“Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries on the Press Freedom Index. Journalists already face significant challenges, including surveillance, attacks, and arbitrary arrests.
“Remarks of this nature from a senior government figure only worsen an already difficult environment for media professionals,” they said
IBAN called on the FCT Minister to:
- Fully retract the statement in clear terms.
- Issue a public apology to Mr. Seun Okinbaloye and the broader media community.
- Reaffirm his commitment to non-violence and respect for press freedom, consistent with Sections 22
and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended).
BOYCOTT DIRECTIVE
According to IBAN, “Should the Minister fail to meet these requests within a reasonable period, IBAN will
have no choice but to advise all independent broadcast stations – whose interests this association solely
represents -to suspend coverage of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences
hosted by the FCT Minister.
“This is not a step IBAN takes lightly. However, independent broadcasters must protect their personnel
and uphold the principle that violent rhetoric will not be normalised or rewarded with platform access.”
IBAN stressed its commitment to constructive engagement with public officials.
“We hope the Minister will take the necessary corrective action so that normal coverage can continue without interruption. The
ball is in his court” they said.
