IBAN demands apology from Wike over ‘shoot’ remark, threatens boycott
The Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria has demanded a public apology from Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike over his controversial remark about Channels TV anchor Seun Okinbaloye. During a recent live programme, Wike had said that if he could break his TV screen he would “shoot” Okinbaloye over the journalist’s analysis of Nigeria’s democracy, a comment that sparked outrage among media stakeholders. In a statement signed by IBAN chairman Ahmed Ramalan and acting general secretary Fidelis Duker, the association described the minister’s words as inappropriate and capable of being interpreted as a threat or intimidation against journalists. While Wike later clarified that he did not intend physical harm, IBAN said public officials must avoid expressions suggesting violence because they can worsen an already hostile environment for media practitioners who face surveillance, attacks and arbitrary arrests. IBAN has therefore asked […]