SMI Condemns Wike’s Hostile Remarks Against Journalist; Demands Immediate Retraction and Public Apology

​Abuja — 4 April 2026.

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Safer-Media Initiative (SMI) has strongly condemned recent comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during a media briefing in which he suggested he would have shot Channels Television journalist, Seun Okinbaloye if it were possible to do so through the screen.

​In a statement issued by Peter Iorter, the Executive Director and CEO of SMI, the organisation described such language from a senior public official as deeply alarming.

Iorter noted: "Such a statement coming from Wike normalises violent rhetoric against journalists and contributes to a climate of fear and intimidation that directly undermines press freedom and democratic accountability in Nigeria."

​He further emphasised that journalists play a vital role in informing the public, facilitating debate, and holding those in power accountable. Consequently, any suggestion of violence against a member of the press—whether framed as hypothetical or rhetorical—is deemed unacceptable and dangerous, especially in a country where journalists already face significant risks in the line of duty.

​In light of this, SMI is calling on Minister Nyesom Wike to immediately retract his statement and issue an unreserved public apology to Seun Okinbaloye and the wider journalistic community. The organisation also urged relevant government authorities to reaffirm their commitment to the safety, independence, and protection of journalists across Nigeria.

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Iorter warned that a failure to address this matter adequately may compel SMI to pursue all appropriate legal and institutional remedies available under Nigerian law.

SMI concluded by standing in solidarity with Seun Okinbaloye, Channels Television, and all media professionals in Nigeria, reiterating its unwavering commitment to defending the right to free, independent, and safe journalism.