“I will not be intimidated” — Seun Okinbaloye fires back at Nyesom Wike voer threat remark

Anchor of Channels Television, Seun Okinbaloye, has declared that he is “not afraid” of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following controversial remarks attributed to the minister over comments made during a television programme.

Wike had reportedly said he would have “broken his TV screen and shot” Okinbaloye over the journalist’s assertion that a one-party system could endanger Nigeria’s democracy. The statement sparked widespread reactions across political and civil society circles.

Human rights group Amnesty International condemned the minister’s comments, describing them as “reckless and violent language” that has no place in a democratic society.

Responding on Sunday, Okinbaloye stood firmly by his earlier position, warning against what he described as the dangers of suppressing dissent in a democracy. He emphasized that his comments were not targeted at any specific political party but were made in defense of democratic principles.

“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 disclosed that he received a phone call from the FCT minister, during which Wike clarified that his comments were not intended in the manner they were perceived.

“I received a call from the honourable minister, who clarified the intention was not as conveyed,” he explained.

While acknowledging the clarification, the television anchor maintained that violent rhetoric or perceived threats should never be used in response to opposing views.

“While that is noted, it is important that violent rhetoric or threats are never appropriate responses to dissent in a democratic society,” he said.

In a firm declaration, Okinbaloye stated that he would not be cowed or intimidated.

“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.”

The exchange has reignited conversations about freedom of expression, press independence, and the tone of political discourse in Nigeria’s democratic space.