Saturday, April 4, 2026.
Lagos, Nigeria.
The Foundation for Digital Justice, (FDJ) condemns FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s threat to physically assault Channels TV Journalist, Seun Okinbaloye during a media chat with journalists in Abuja.
Such a remark from a public office holder is unacceptable and constitutes a direct threat to press freedom and democratic accountability.
This represents a pattern by Nigerian authorities to shrink the civic space by intimidating journalists and inducing self-censorship. Any threat against journalists undermines free speech, media freedom, and the foundations of democratic governance.
Accordingly, we demand that Minister Wike issue a public retraction of his threats and offer a public apology to Seun Okinbaloye within 24 hours. Should the Minister fail to do so, we will pursue all available legal remedies to hold him accountable.
Signed
Esther Martins
Communications Officer
