Channels Television anchor, Seun Okinbaloye, has declared that he is not afraid of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following the minister’s controversial remark that he would have “broken the TV screen and shot” him.
Okinbaloye made the assertion on Sunday while responding to the backlash triggered by Wike’s statement.
The minister had reacted angrily during a media chat after Okinbaloye warned on his programme *Politics Today* that allowing a one-party system in Nigeria would destroy the country’s democracy.
Wike reportedly said: “If there was any way to break the screen (of the television), I would have shot him.”
The remark drew widespread condemnation, including from Amnesty International, which accused Wike of using “reckless and violent language” that could normalise attacks on journalists.
In his response on Sunday, Okinbaloye stood by his earlier comments on the danger of a one-party system and condemned the use of violent rhetoric in a democracy.
“The fact remains that our democracy is in danger if we allow one-way traffic in balloting,” he said.
“This is not a warning to the opposition or ruling party, but to all Nigerians who believe in the development of our nation.”
Okinbaloye revealed that he received a call from the minister, who clarified that his intention was not as conveyed in the statement.
“While that is noted, it is important that violent rhetoric or threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society,” he added.
He further stated: “Let me be clear: I am not afraid and I will never be intimidated. We may disagree and as humans we may err, but dissent must never descend into hostility or harm.
“I will continue to do what I love, asking the necessary questions and holding power to account.”
