The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria, IBAN, has taken a firm stand against comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that his future media appearances could face a coordinated boycott if he fails to publicly retract his statement and apologise.
The controversy stems from remarks Wike made during a live appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television, where he reacted angrily to journalist Seun Okinbaloye’s style of questioning. According to IBAN, the minister’s statement — “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him” — crossed a line that should never be ignored, especially in a country where journalists already work under pressure and fear.
Although Wike has since reportedly clarified that he had no intention of causing physical harm, IBAN insists that such language is deeply troubling when it comes from a public office holder. For the association, this is not just about one heated comment. It is about the larger message it sends in a democratic society where the press is meant to ask difficult questions without fear of threats, intimidation, or hostility.
IBAN also pointed to the fragile condition of press freedom in Nigeria, noting that many journalists still face harassment, surveillance, and arbitrary arrests. In that context, the group said careless remarks from powerful public figures only worsen an already tense media environment.
The association has now asked Wike to do three things clearly and publicly: withdraw the statement, apologise to Seun Okinbaloye and the wider media community, and reaffirm his commitment to press freedom and non-violence as guaranteed under the Constitution.
IBAN said if those demands are ignored within a reasonable period, it may direct independent broadcast stations across the country to suspend coverage of the minister’s press briefings, interviews, and official appearances.
For now, the association says it still hopes the matter can be resolved responsibly. But its message is unmistakable: words matter, and public officials must be held to a higher standard.