Amnesty International Slams Wike Over ‘Shoot’ Remark Against TV Anchor

Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly condemned what it described as “reckless and violent language” used by Nyesom Wike following comments he made about journalist Seun Okinbaloye.

In a statement released on April 4, 2026, the rights group criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for remarks made during a live television appearance, where he suggested he could have responded to a journalist’s comment with violence.

According to Amnesty International, Wike said: “If there’s anyway to break the screen, I would have shot him…”—a statement the organization described as both dangerous and unacceptable.

The group warned that such rhetoric from a senior government official risks normalizing violence and could embolden attacks against journalists carrying out their professional duties.

Amnesty further noted that the comment potentially violates Nigeria’s broadcasting code, which is overseen by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission, and called for accountability.

Describing the remark as unlawful and deeply concerning, the organization urged Wike to immediately withdraw the statement and issue a public apology.

It also called on Nigerian authorities to refrain from condoning inflammatory actions or statements, particularly when they come from individuals in positions of power.

The development has sparked wider concerns about press freedom and the safety of media professionals in Nigeria.