The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has come under criticism from Amnesty International Nigeria after saying he would have “shot” Channels Television anchor Seun Okinbaloye over comments on Nigeria’s political direction.

Amnesty International described the remark as “reckless and violent,” warning that such statements from a senior government official risk normalising attacks against journalists and undermining press freedom.

The controversy followed comments made by Okinbaloye on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Thursday, where he raised concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one party system. His remarks came amid the crisis within the African Democratic Congress, including the controversial de recognition of a national executive led by David Mark.

During the programme, Okinbaloye emphasised the importance of political competition, stating that elections are more meaningful when multiple parties participate. He described the ADC as a potential opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections and warned that weakening such alternatives could harm Nigeria’s democracy.

Reacting on Friday while speaking to journalists in Abuja, Wike said he was angered by the presenter’s comments and accused him of expressing personal opinions rather than maintaining neutrality.

“I was surprised when I was watching Politics Today. Seun, if there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” Wike said during the broadcast.

The minister argued that as an interviewer, Okinbaloye should not take positions on political issues, insisting that doing so amounts to unprofessional conduct.

However, Wike later clarified that he did not intend to physically harm the journalist, explaining that the statement was made out of anger.

Despite the clarification, Amnesty International said the comment was unacceptable and must be addressed. In a statement issued on Saturday, the organisation stressed that the minister’s words could incite violence against media practitioners.

“What Wike said carries the danger of normalising violence and encouraging the targeting of journalists for just doing their job,” the group said.

It added that such remarks violate Nigeria’s broadcasting code and pointed out that the National Broadcasting Commission is responsible for enforcing compliance.

Amnesty International further stated that “this level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable,” urging Wike to immediately withdraw the statement and issue a public apology.

The organisation also called on Nigerian authorities to refrain from tolerating what it described as lawless behaviour from individuals in positions of power, warning that failure to act could weaken democratic institutions and press freedom protections.

The incident has intensified ongoing debates about political tolerance, media independence and the state of Nigeria’s democracy, particularly amid concerns over opposition strength and allegations of moves towards a dominant party system under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.