The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has strongly condemned recent comments made by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, describing them as inappropriate and potentially intimidating to the media. In a statement issued on Monday, the umbrella body for independent broadcast stations across the country called on the minister to retract his statement and publicly apologise to journalist Seun Okinbaloye and the wider media community.
The controversy erupted during a live media chat on Channels Television on Friday, April 3, 2026. While reacting to Okinbaloye’s interviewing style on the Politics Today programme, Wike reportedly said: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.” Although the minister later clarified that he did not intend physical harm, IBAN argued that such expressions of violent intent from a public official remain unacceptable regardless of context.
IBAN highlighted the broader implications of the remark, noting that Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries on the World Press Freedom Index. The association expressed concern that comments of this nature exacerbate existing challenges faced by journalists, including surveillance, attacks, and arbitrary arrests, thereby worsening the operating environment for media professionals.
In its formal demands, IBAN urged the FCT Minister to fully retract the statement in clear terms, issue a public apology, and reaffirm his commitment to non-violence and respect for press freedom. The association specifically referenced Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), which guarantee freedom of the press and expression.
To press home its position, IBAN announced a potential boycott of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences hosted by Minister Wike. The directive would apply to all independent broadcast stations represented by the association if the minister fails to comply within a reasonable period.
IBAN described the boycott threat as a necessary step to protect media personnel and prevent the normalisation of violent rhetoric. The association, however, expressed hope that the minister would take corrective action to restore normal coverage and maintain constructive engagement with public officials. The statement was signed by Alhaji (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, Chairman of IBAN, and Fidelis Duker, Acting General Secretary.
