The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for remarks perceived as a threat against Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.
The controversy erupted after Wike reacted angrily during a media chat on Friday to comments made by Okinbaloye on the programme *Politics Today*. The journalist had expressed concern that Nigeria risks drifting toward a one-party system, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis within the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike reportedly stated: “If there was any way to break the screen (of the television), I would have shot him,” referring to the journalist.
In a statement issued on Saturday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi described Wike’s remarks as “irresponsible and unacceptable,” branding them a direct assault on freedom of speech and journalistic duty.
“This must be condemned by all lovers of freedom of speech,” Abdullahi said. “Wike threatening to shoot Seun Okinbaloye from Channels Television for doing his job as a journalist is irresponsible and unacceptable. After destroying opposition parties, they now want to start shooting journalists.”
The ADC spokesman further expressed worry that the administration of President Bola Tinubu, having allegedly weakened opposition parties, is now turning its attention toward intimidating members of the press.
