By Passman Akpos
A fresh controversy has erupted in Nigeria’s political space as Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly condemned remarks by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing them as dangerous and a violation of broadcasting standards.
The rights organisation said Mr Wike’s comment, made during a live media briefing on Friday, breached the code of the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission and risked encouraging violence against journalists.
Mr Wike had reacted angrily to comments by Seun Okinbaloye, host of Politics Today on Channels Television, where concerns were raised about Nigeria potentially drifting toward a one-party state amid crises in opposition parties.
“I was surprised… if there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him and commit murder,” Mr Wike said during the broadcast, a statement that has since triggered widespread outrage.
In a statement issued Saturday, Amnesty International described the comment as “reckless and violent,” warning that such language from a high-ranking government official could normalize attacks on media professionals.
“This level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable. Mr Wike must withdraw his statement immediately and apologize,” the group said, stressing that the comment undermines press freedom and democratic accountability.
The organisation further cautioned that such rhetoric could embolden hostility toward journalists, who already operate under increasing pressure in the country.
The controversy comes amid heightened political tension, with opposition figures intensifying allegations that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working to weaken rival parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
The situation escalated earlier in the week after the Independent National Electoral Commission announced sweeping changes within the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, citing a Court of Appeal judgment.
The electoral body removed key figures, including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, from its records, stating it was complying with a directive to maintain the “status quo ante bellum” pending further court rulings.
However, the affected faction rejected the decision, alleging political interference and pressure from the government.
Prominent opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have since accused the Tinubu administration and INEC of attempting to engineer a one-party system ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
As the debate intensifies, analysts warn that both the shrinking political space and inflammatory rhetoric from public officials could further deepen concerns about Nigeria’s democratic health and the safety of journalists.
