Amnesty International has condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over what it described as a reckless and violent remark allegedly made against a journalist during a live television interview.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Saturday, Amnesty International said Wike’s comment was dangerous and could encourage attacks on media practitioners.
According to the group, Wike reportedly said, “If there’s any way to broke [sic] the screen, I would have shot him…” Amnesty described this as reckless and violent language that raises serious concerns for press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
The organisation warned that such statements from a senior government official risk normalising violence against journalists and could embolden attacks on media personnel simply for performing their duties.
Amnesty also noted that Wike’s remark violates Nigeria’s broadcasting regulations, which are intended to guide conduct on air, and called on the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission to enforce these standards.
The group described the statement as unlawful and unacceptable, particularly coming from a member of the federal cabinet. It urged Wike to retract his words and issue a public apology, emphasizing that public officials must exercise caution with their statements.
“Mr Wike must withdraw his violent statement immediately and apologise,” Amnesty said, highlighting the need for accountability in public communication.
