By Peter Omopo
A presenter with Channels Television, Seun Okinbaloye, has said he will not be intimidated following controversy surrounding remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Okinbaloye made the statement during a live broadcast on Sunday, where he also expressed appreciation for the support he received from civil society organisations, viewers, and both local and international bodies.
He warned that democracy could be threatened if dissenting voices are silenced, stressing that his comments were directed at all Nigerians and not at any particular political group.
The journalist disclosed that he had received assurances regarding his safety from the Department of State Services, and confirmed that the minister had reached out to clarify that his earlier remarks were not intended as conveyed.
Despite the clarification, Okinbaloye cautioned against the use of inflammatory language, noting that such rhetoric is inappropriate in a democratic setting, particularly during an election period when public confidence and safety are critical.
Reaffirming his stance, he said he would continue to carry out his professional duties, including asking critical questions and holding public officials accountable.
The controversy followed comments by Wike during a media interaction in Abuja, where he criticised Okinbaloye’s analysis of the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress and broader opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Although the minister later clarified that his remarks were not intended as a threat, his aide, Lere Olayinka, explained that the statement was made in a hyperbolic context.
However, Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the comment, describing it as reckless and warning that such language could endanger journalists and undermine press freedom.
The organisation stressed that statements capable of inciting violence against media practitioners are unacceptable, particularly when made by public officials.
