Amnesty International has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over comments it described as “reckless and violent,” warning that such statements could endanger journalists and undermine press freedom.
During a media chat on Friday, the former Rivers State Governor said, “If there’s any way to break the screen, I would have shot him…” in reference to a Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye who said Nigeria was venturing into a one-party State system.
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In a statement, the rights organisation argued that the comment not only incites violence but also risks normalising attacks against media professionals carrying out their duties.
The organisation further noted that the statement appears to violate Nigeria’s broadcasting regulations, which are overseen by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC). It criticised the regulatory body for failing to enforce standards that prohibit harmful or inciting content on public airwaves.
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According to Amnesty International, such rhetoric from a high-ranking government official is particularly alarming, as it may embolden others to target journalists and erode democratic accountability in Nigeria.
“What Wike said carries the danger of normalising violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists for just doing their job. This level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable. Mr Wike must withdraw his violent statement immediately and apologise.”
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The group called on Wike to immediately retract his statement and issue a public apology, emphasising that “this level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable.”
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