Amnesty International Nigeria has criticised Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike for saying he wanted to shoot Channels Television journalist, Seun Okinbaloye via the television screen.
Wike made the remark during a media chat in Abuja on Friday while reacting to Okinbaloye’s comment on the tendency of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.
Wike has faced criticism on social media, especially X, where a video of his remark has circulated.
Weighing in, Amnesty described the statement as constituting “reckless and violent language” that should not be condoned.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the reckless and violent language of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Mr. Nyesom Wike in which he stated that he can respond to a statement by a journalist with shooting.
“Mr. Wike stated on live television that: ‘If there’s anyway to broke (sic) the screen, I would have shot him…’ Apart from inciting violence Wike’s remarks violated Nigeria’s broadcasting code that the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is supposed to be enforcing,” the human rights group said in a Saturday statement shared on Facebook.
Amnesty noted that the minister’s remark carries the danger of normalising violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists for just doing their job.
It stressed that this level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable.
The group said the minister must withdraw his violent statement immediately and apologise.
“The Nigerian authorities must stop condoning such lawless acts when they come from those close to power or the ruling party,” it added.
