Wike Clarifies ‘Shooting’ Comment on Seun Okinbaloye, Dismisses Backlash as Misinterpretation
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike explains controversial remark about journalist Seun Okinbaloye, says it was figurative, as rights groups raise concerns over press safety.
ABUJA
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has responded to widespread criticism trailing his controversial comment referencing the “shooting” of Channels Television anchor, Seun Okinbaloye, insisting that the remark was misinterpreted and taken out of context.
Speaking during an interview on News Central on Monday, Wike described the public outrage as politically motivated, maintaining that the statement was never intended as a literal threat but rather an expression of frustration.
“It’s unfortunate that in Nigeria, people tend to blow issues out of proportion, especially when politics is involved,” the minister said, expressing concern over how the comment had been framed in public discourse.
Wike explained that his longstanding relationship with Okinbaloye should have made it clear that the remark was figurative. According to him, those familiar with their interactions would understand that the comment was a figure of speech used to convey displeasure.
“Anyone who knows my relationship with Seun would not misinterpret what I said. It was simply a way of expressing how upset I was,” he added.
The minister, however, took a swipe at the journalist’s handling of the situation, suggesting that the matter could have been resolved privately instead of escalating into a national controversy. He questioned what he described as a lapse in professional engagement, arguing that direct communication would have been more appropriate.
Despite the tension generated by the incident, Wike disclosed that both parties have since resolved their differences, noting that there is no lingering dispute between them.
“We have spoken and there is no problem. I believe he understands the situation,” he said.
The controversy stems from remarks made by the minister during a recent media parley in Abuja, where he criticised Okinbaloye’s analysis of the internal crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and commentary suggesting a drift toward a one-party state.
While Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, defended the statement as exaggerated rhetoric, the comment drew condemnation from civil society organisations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, which described the language as inappropriate and potentially harmful to press freedom.
Reacting to the development, Okinbaloye confirmed that the minister had reached out to clarify his comments. However, he maintained his stance on the importance of safeguarding journalistic independence, stressing that no form of intimidation or violent rhetoric should be tolerated in a democratic society.
The incident has reignited conversations around the relationship between public officials and the media, particularly on the need for responsible communication and the protection of journalists in the line of duty.