NGE, SERAP urge Tinubu to probe alleged threats against Channels TV presenter
The Nigeria Guild of Editors and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project have called on President Bola Tinubu to order an immediate investigation into alleged threats against Seun Okinbaloye and other journalists.
The groups, in a joint statement, condemned remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing them as dangerous and capable of undermining press freedom in the country.
The controversy followed comments made by Okinbaloye during a programme on Channels Television, where he raised concerns about Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
In response, Wike, during a media chat, reportedly expressed anger and made remarks suggesting he would have harmed the journalist if it were possible.
Reacting, NGE and SERAP stressed that public officials must remain open to scrutiny, noting that journalists have a constitutional right to report and comment on issues of public interest without fear of intimidation.
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The organisations acknowledged that Wike later clarified his statement but maintained that such remarks should not have been made in the first place, warning that they contribute to a climate of fear and discourage investigative journalism.
They further criticised what they described as the consistent failure of authorities to investigate and prosecute attacks against journalists, saying this has encouraged a culture of impunity.
According to the groups, press freedom in Nigeria is facing increasing pressure, citing cases of harassment, unlawful detention and attacks on media practitioners.
They referenced data indicating that Nigeria dropped to 122nd position in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, with dozens of journalists reportedly assaulted or arrested while covering protests in 2024.
The statement emphasised that both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights laws guarantee freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, urging the government to uphold these protections.
NGE and SERAP called on the President to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and relevant security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure accountability, while also reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting media freedom in the country.