Media Groups, CSOs Demand Wike To Apologise Over Threat To Shoot Seun Okinbaloye

Wike to apologise. A network of press freedom and civil society organisations has condemned recent remarks by Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), directed at Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.

Wike, during a media chat in Abuja on Friday, threatened to shoot Okinbaloye over the journalist’s comments on the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.

Speaking on his programme, Okinbaloye had said it was disappointing that the 2027 elections were shaping up as a contest dominated by one political party, citing the crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He said that Nigeria is “doomed democratically” if the only viable opposition — ADC — is unable to contest the 2027 elections.

Reacting to Okinbaloye, Wike had said: “I was surprised yesterday, thoroughly surprised. If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”

In a statement signed by 14 organisations, the network demanded that Wike retract his remarks, apologise to Okinbaloye and the media community, and “reaffirm a clear commitment to non-violence and the defence of press freedom as a public official on oath to abide with the constitution”.

They said that while the minister later clarified that he did not intend to physically harm the journalist, “even such hypothetical expressions of violent intent constitute a conditional threat and cannot be dismissed as harmless”.

“Even if meant humorously, such rhetoric can be perceived as intimidation by both the journalist and the audience,” the statement reads.

“We assert that conditional threats or violent statements against journalists contribute to a climate of fear, undermining the fundamental principles of a free and independent press, especially as journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.”

The CSOs and press freedom groups warned that threats or violent language, whether direct or indirect, put journalists at risk and weaken public trust in democracy.

“With a press freedom index ranking of 122 out of 180 countries, Nigeria remains one of West Africa’s most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists,” the statement said.

Wike To Apologise

“Media professionals are routinely monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily arrested, particularly during electoral campaigns. Incidents like this can further imperil journalists and highlight the urgent need for balanced and responsible political engagement, especially from public officials.”

The network also urged institutions and public figures to reject violent rhetoric against the media and promote a culture of respectful engagement, even amid strong disagreements.

President Tinubu Unveils Ogun Airport

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday arrived in Ogun State to commission the Gateway International Airport in Iperu and unveil a new state-owned airline, Gateway Air, marking a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing infrastructure development agenda.

The inauguration ceremony, broadcast live on TVC, highlighted the federal and state collaboration in advancing transportation and economic growth in the region.

The President is also scheduled to commission and inspect several other key projects across sectors, including transportation, energy, agriculture, and security, reflecting the government’s commitment to comprehensive development and investment in the state’s economy.

Gateway International Airport. Photo credit: TVC
According to a statement released by PBAT Media Centre, the projects slated for commissioning include the “unveiling of newly acquired aircraft under Gateway Air, the commissioning of a cargo facility at the airport, the 30MW Independent Power Plant at Onijanganjangan near Ewekoro, and major road projects such as the Ilishan–Iperu Road, the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade Road, and the Gateway International Airport Road.”

Other initiatives slated for commissioning include the “reconstructed Old Ibadan Road, to be renamed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway, distribution of electric bikes, agricultural equipment such as tractors, security vehicles, ambulances, and the Nigeria Customs Service Village and Forward Operating Base.”

In an earlier statement, Governor Dapo Abiodun, in welcoming the President on behalf of the state, said the visit underscores a shared commitment to development across multiple sectors.

The governor explained that the projects reflect efforts to improve infrastructure, mobility, security, emergency response, agriculture, and energy support.

President Tinubu Unveils Ogun Airport

Abiodun said the initiatives also demonstrate a partnership between the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government’s development agenda.

“These projects reflect our shared commitment to infrastructure development, improved mobility, enhanced security, emergency response, agricultural advancement, energy support, and economic transformation,” he said.

The governor further explained that the projects stand as evidence of a resolve to build a “more prosperous Ogun State while contributing meaningfully to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.”

Oyo CAN Calls On Nigerians For Unity, Forgiveness In Easter Message

Easter message. Mr Owolabi also called on all churches in the country to address social issues.

Revd. Samuel Owolabi, the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, has called on Nigerians to apply the teachings of Easter, which are selflessness and sacrifice, to their lives.

In an interview with journalists in Ibadan on Saturday, the CAN scribe also tasked Nigerians to embrace love, forgiveness, and moderation.

Mr Owolabi, who is also the Presbyter of Methodist Church Nigeria, Wesley Cathedral, Elekuro, Ibadan, said that possessing these virtues would ensure unity and love in the country.

He said, “No matter the ethnic group or religious affiliation, we must look beyond our differences and work towards building a better nation.”

Citing John 3:16, Ephesians 4:32, and Philippians 2:3–4, the Oyo CAN secretary emphasised the need for all Nigerians to imbibe these virtues.

“Let’s prioritise empathy, understanding, and collective action; let’s focus on what unites the family, culture, and community.

“We must not let religious or political differences divide us.

“We’re all related in one way or another, let’s reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice (Romans 5:8) and strive to be better versions of ourselves, promoting unity and peace,” he said.

Mr Owolabi also called on all churches in the country to address social issues such as poverty and work with the government to tackle insecurity.

“Jesus Christ provided for people’s needs and treated everyone equally. The church must work with government, especially on insecurity issues, by speaking against injustices.

“Aiding the vulnerable according to Matthew and promoting education must be the church’s primary responsibility, not money.

CAN

“Churches are foremost agents of change, showing God’s love through action as stated in 1 John 3:18, so let’s prioritise love and tolerance to make a better nation,” Mr Owolabi said.

The Presbyter praised Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on developments recorded in the state and encouraged residents to participate in the upcoming 2027 elections.

“In all, every Nigerian must strive to be agents of change, showing love and empathy to those around them and working towards a country where everyone feels valued, safe, and included.”