By Solomon OKPO
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned a recent remark by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, directed at a television anchor, describing it as a serious threat to press freedom and democratic values.
In a statement issued shortly after the incident, the union expressed deep concern over what it termed an “unacceptable and dangerous” comment made by the minister during a media appearance. The NUJ insisted that such utterances, especially from a high-ranking public official, could incite hostility against journalists and undermine the safety of media practitioners.
The controversy stems from Wike’s reaction to a comment made by a television presenter during a live programme, which reportedly provoked the minister into making a remark perceived as threatening. The union noted that regardless of provocation, public office holders must exercise restraint and uphold democratic principles, including respect for the media.
The NUJ called on Wike to issue an immediate and unreserved apology to the journalist involved and the broader media community. It also urged the Federal Government to take appropriate disciplinary measures to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression and press independence.
According to the union, the role of the media in a democracy is to hold leaders accountable, and any attempt to intimidate journalists constitutes an attack on the public’s right to information. It warned that failure to address the issue decisively could set a dangerous precedent for media-government relations in the country.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting journalists, the NUJ assured its members that it would continue to resist any form of intimidation or harassment, while calling on stakeholders to defend the sanctity of press freedom in Nigeria.
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